July 15 2015.


After a gloomy and cloudy start to the day the weather soon cleared to cheery sunshine that shone on the Lifeboat Summer Fete all afternoon.

The fete was officially opened by Seaford Town Crier, Peter White, and Mayor of Newhaven, Cllr. Steve Saunders, who, as well as confirming that RNLI Newhaven is one of the Mayor’s Charities of the Year, made a speech thanking the many local businesses who provided support by way of sponsorship of the event expenses or donating raffle prizes.

Over the course of the afternoon over 2000 people attended the Fete and enjoyed displays from Haven Harmonies, Norcross Dancers, Earthquake Drum Collective and Russells Kick Boxing. The Lifeboat House was open on the day and many people took the opportunity to visit the boathouse and speak to the volunteer crew about their duties whilst being entertained by Newhaven Maestro. Coxswain Paul Legendre said, “The atmosphere at Huggetts Green and at the boathouse was superb, with everyone enjoying a great day out whilst learning about the RNLI message to Respect The Water.” Although final figures have yet to be confirmed, the Fete has raised over £4500.00 for the benefit of RNLI Newhaven.

The following day, for the second consecutive year, the Coastguard Helicopter was able to join the Newhaven Lifeboat for the on water display at Seaford Bay. Unfortunately, the inclement weather resulted in fewer than usual people watching from the beach, but those that did brave the wind and rain had the treat of an excellent display whilst listening to the incredibly informative live commentary provided by a very knowledgeable Sea Safety Officer, Bill Walton. The appreciative crowd donated a further £162.07.