July 20 2016.


The weekend of the 2nd and 3rd of July saw successful fundraising days in aid of RNLI Newhaven. The Fete organisers welcomed cheery sunshine that shone on the Lifeboat Summer Fete all afternoon.

The fete was officially and expertly opened by Seaford Town Crier, Peter White, and Mayor of Newhaven, Cllr. Steve Saunders, who made a speech thanking the many local businesses who provided support by way of sponsorship of the event expenses or donating fabulous raffle prizes. Thanks were also given to all the volunteers who had donated their time to manning a variety of lifeboat stalls. Cllr. Saunders, who has made his own fundraising efforts in aid of RNLI Newhaven, most significantly by cycling from London to Paris earlier in the year, presented a cheque for £3800.00. Some of the monies raised will be put towards the cost of the new RCAMS data system which will hopefully be installed at the Lifeboat House later this year.

Over the course of the afternoon it is estimated that over 2000 people attended the Fete and enjoyed displays from Earthquake Drum Collective, Norcross Dance Centre and Newhaven Maestro. 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 Haven Harmonies. 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 day itself has raised over £4500.00 for the benefit of RNLI Newhaven.

The celebration weekend continued on Sunday the 3rd of July with the Lifeboat Display at Seaford Beach. The expectant crowd was treated to one of the best displays in recent years, with not only the arrival of the Coastguard Helicopter, but also by Brighton’s Atlantic Class In-shore Lifeboat. The marvellous display demonstrated the skills of the volunteer lifeboat crews. Knowledgeable and captivating live commentary was provided by Sea Safety Officer, Bill Walton, who said, “This display is the best I have seen in years. A true privilege to commentate on.” Generous donations on the day amounted to an unprecedented £752.00

Fete Weekend Organiser and Secretary for Newhaven & District Lifeboat Society, Graham Hillman, said, “The local district, individuals and businesses, have passionately and proudly supported their local lifeboat for many a year. We hope to have raised approximately £5500.00 this Fete weekend. With their continuing support, we very much hope to maintain a lifeboat at Newhaven for many more years into the future.”

Anyone looking for details of upcoming fundraising events in support of RNLI Newhaven, such as Storytelling Evenings, Music Nights, Open Garden Events, Coffee mornings and Quiz Nights should email rnlinewhaven.society@hotmail.co.uk