23 September 2009

LIFEBOATS in Scotland had one of their busiest summers with the two local lifeboat stations in Aith and Lerwick reporting similar activity compared to last year.

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) said yesterday (Tuesday) that during June, July and August the charity’s lifeboats were launched around Scotland 429 times with some stations such as Invergordon and Kyle of Lochalsh seeing demand doubling compared to 2008.

In Shetland, Aith lifeboat was called out three times (compared to only once last summer), and Lerwick lifeboat responded to six calls (nine in summer 2008).

Divisional inspector for the RNLI in Scotland, Wave Crookes, said: “It has been a busy summer for the RNLI in Scotland but as always our volunteer lifeboat crews put the safety of the public first - dropping everything the moment the pager goes off.

“Lifeboat crews have responded to a variety of calls from stricken yachts and fishing boats to injured walkers and one crew even helped a woman give birth onboard the lifeboat.

“Sadly the summer months haven't been without tragedy and our thoughts go out to those who have lost a loved one.

“Like most of the population, supporters and our volunteer crew, their families and employers have faced an uncertain economic climate this summer making their commitment to the RNLI even more admirable, and we are extremely grateful to them.”

Anyone wishing to make a donation to the charity can log on to www.rnli.org.uk call 0800 543210 or write to RNLI, West Quay Road, Poole, Dorset BH15 1HZ.