Freshwater Independent Lifeboat Appeals For Community Support To Complete Station Revamp

Freshwater Independent Lifeboat is calling on Islanders to get behind a major fundraising campaign to help complete vital improvements to its lifeboat station.

The independent service, founded by the local community in 1972, relies entirely on donations to remain operational. With its station last upgraded in 2008, the charity is now investing in a significant redevelopment to ensure its volunteer crew have a safer, more modern base for years to come.

Supporters are being encouraged to take part in the ‘Buy a Brick’ campaign, which has already seen more than 450 bricks snapped up at £50 each.

While the lifeboat has committed £595,000 to the project, a further £160,000 is needed to bring the full plans to completion.

The upgrade will provide improved machinery storage, a new upstairs area for training and community use, and a larger shop to help generate income towards the station’s annual running costs.

Construction is already progressing, with Stoneham Construction having completed the footings and concrete pour.

Crews are now appealing for further backing from residents and local businesses to help push the project over the line.

Josh Macgregor, who is leading the station upgrade, said the response so far has been encouraging and thanked the community for its continued support.

He said every brick purchased will form part of the new building and help secure the future of the lifeboat service.

Names of supporters will be displayed on a permanent brick feature wall inside the finished station.

The exterior of the building and shop is expected to be complete and watertight by July, with internal works continuing as funds allow.

Further details on how to support the appeal are available via the Freshwater Independent Lifeboat website.