Action-packed, fun and informative – all you could wish for at the Padstow Lifeboat Weekend.

The ‘Spirit of Padstow’

This Tamar class all weather Lifeboat was placed on service on 17th July 2006 at Padstow, just after the Lifeboat Station was opened at Trevose Head. The Lifeboat Station is impressive, a remarkable feat of engineering and seeing the ‘Spirit of Padstow’ launch from the slipway into the water below is a spectacular sight indeed.

All aboard

All members of the family were able to climb onboard and take a closer look at ‘The Spirt of Padstow’. Chairman, John Stephens, and Crew were onboard, providing a wealth of information and fascinating facts regarding the Station, Lifeboat and equipment. It was fascinating to learn all about the Lifeboat which helps to save so many lives at sea with thanks to the brave Crew and volunteers of the RNLI. It was also clear to see how both the Lifeboat and Boathouse are kept in fantastic condition, which is also credit to the Coxsain and Crew who look after them so well.

Fun for all the family

In the adjoining field, there were plenty more activities for everyone. Face painting, refreshments, local produce on offer and also crockery smashing, all in the name of this good cause. More opportunities to climb onboard other boats too for the aspiring Crew members of the future! The Shipwrecks also gave a great vocal performance in the entertainment marquee.

Mike England, Second Coxswain/Mechanic, was delighted with the turnout for the event from both locals and holidaymakers.  “I’m pleased that great fun has been had by everyone that has attended this weekend. It has been a wonderful opportunity to show everyone the Lifeboat Station, the ‘Spirit of Padstow’ and also all of the equipment that donations help fund.”

Raising funds and awareness

The Padstow Lifeboat Station holds open days throughout the summer. The Station is also open to visitors between 10am and 3pm on a daily basis, though times can be subject to change without notice so it is best to always check the Padstow Lifeboat website before visiting. Exercise launches also take place weekly, operational requirements permitting. The RNLI depends entirely on voluntary contributions. With this in mind, there are wonderful RNLI gifts to purchase at the Lifeboat Station or other ways to donate too. Opportunities also exist for anyone to get involved, which can include fundraising or other volunteering positions. For more information about this contact padstow@rnli.org.uk

Mother Ivey’s Bay Holiday Park are helping raise more funds

Here, at Mother Ivey’s Bay Holiday Park, we have fantastic views of the impressive and iconic Lifeboat Station on the spectacular headland. However, it is not just the view that we hold dear but also the fantastic work and efforts of all the Crew and volunteers at the Padstow Lifeboat Station and RNLI. In summer, we continue to hold weekly barbecues with the help of Gary Dutton Butchers, raising funds for Padstow Lifeboat Crew Fund.

Look out for our next barbecue on the beach! Also, half of the proceeds of our children’s book, ‘The Legend of Mother Ivey”, are donated to the Padstow Lifeboat Crew Fund. You can purchase your copy from Reception or The Park Shop at Mother Ivey’s Bay Holiday Park.