By Dan Walsh
On average, RNLI lifeboats launch over 100 times during the Christmas period every year. Whatever weather winter throws at them, RNLI crews such as those at Courtown, Wexford, Rosslare Harbour, Fethard and Kilmore Quay, are ready to battle the elements to save lives at sea.
These rescues, and others all year round, are only made possible by the RNLI’s generous supporters, helping to fund the essential kit, training and equipment needed to keep crews prepared and protected.
Christmas is a time for family and friends, but the RNLI’s volunteer crews are ready to leave their own celebrations this festive season and answer the call for help.
Among the thousands of volunteers preparing for Christmas are seven female lifeboat and shore crew at Fethard RNLI including Rebecca Doyle, a trainee crew member.
Rebecca is a long serving volunteer, predominantly in fundraising but also acts as the station’s Water Safety Officer and has in the past served as Lifeboat Press Officer.
“Because we operate around the Hook Peninsula from New Ross to Kilmore Quay, our lifeboat has 12 different launching sites. As part of the crew training, I need to complete an exercise at each. I have one more to do and I will then be ready to respond to my first call out,” Rebecca told WexfordLocal.com.
As she looks ahead to Christmas, Rebecca knows her fellow crew are ready to respond if needed; “For a crew member, there’s no feeling quite like bringing someone home safe to their families – especially at Christmas. Even at this time of year, people still get in trouble in the water, and like all RNLI crews, we at Fethard RNLI are prepared to leave our own celebrations to help others.
“But as volunteer lifeboat crew we couldn’t launch without kind donations from the public which fund the kit, training and equipment we need to save others and get home safely to our own families.”
To make a donation to the RNLI’s Christmas Appeal, and enable the charity to continue its lifesaving work, visit: RNLI.org/WinterAppeal.
WexfordLocal.com 