Get set for Selsey Lifeboat Week

Selsey Lifeboat Week kicks off on Sunday with a service of praise and thanksgiving on the Lifeboat Green, led by Rev Andy Wilkes, chaplain to the RNLI Selsey Lifeboat and rector of St Peter’s Church, in Selsey.

This year’s event, which runs until August 2, is especially important as volunteers are in the middle of a fundraising push for a new Shannon all-weather lifeboat and the new boathouse to house it.

“It’s a tremendous amount of work,” said chairman of the RNLI Selsey Lifeboat Station branch Colvin Rae.

“We’ve got lots of volunteers helping and it’s a major fundraiser.

“All funds raised this year will be going towards our new Shannon all-weather lifeboat appeal.

“We’re grateful to all the many companies and individuals who provide sponsorship and support.”

He said one of the two biggest events of the week would be the popular tug o’ war on Friday evening at 7pm on Lifeboat Green, followed by a fireworks display courtesy of Selsey firm Selstar.

This will be followed on Sunday by the celebrated raft race near the lifeboat station. There will then be a Spitfire and Harvard flying display and also a lifeboat display on the open water.

“We thought the Spitfire was appropriate this year,” said Colvin.

“We see it quite often practising over here but it will be very good to see the two of them together.”

There are a range of events taking place throughout the week.

There is a lifeboat station open evening on Monday from 6pm-9pm. Entry is free and there is a chance to see the two lifeboats and talk with the crews.

A walking treasure hunt takes place on Tuesday, with entry at £1 per person. Meet between 6pm-6.30pm at the inshore boathouse.

The Seal pub, in Hillfield Road, is holding a quiz night at 9pm on Wednesday and there is a race night at the Royal British Legion Club on Thursday. Colvin appealed for anyone wanting to help the lifeboat to get in touch.

“You don’t have to step aboard a lifeboat to help save lives at sea,” he said. “You can help by fundraising or by joining our fundraising teams in Selsey and Chichester. If you’re interested please contact 07811 207633.”

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