We chat to Mike England from Padstow Lifeboat about life at sea, the strength of the crew, and what it means to serve the local community.
What does Christmas on duty look like for the Padstow Lifeboat crew? Any festive traditions at the station?
Christmas on duty is just like any other time of year. Padstow RNLI volunteer crew are ready 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to answer the call to rescue. The full-time crew are usually on duty over the festive period and are backed up by our team of volunteers. Being available at Christmas time can be more difficult for those who have children, but many are prepared to make that sacrifice for those in need.
Are there any memorable rescue stories from the winter season that really capture the bravery and teamwork of the crew?
We have been called out several times over the Christmas period over the years, and especially over the New Year. On the 24th of December back in 1977, Padstow RNLI Lifeboat was called to assist in the search for a Danish Coaster that was sinking off Trevose in very poor weather. The volunteer lifeboat crew were at sea for almost 15 hours. Sadly, only two survivors were rescued.
How does the festive period affect callouts on the North Cornwall coast?
The festive period is usually no different to any other time except for the winter weather conditions. The influx of holiday makers over Christmas and the New Year can sometimes make a difference. It can be almost as busy as during the summer over those few weeks.
Padstow has such a strong bond with the lifeboat. What does this community support mean to you and the volunteers?
Padstow Lifeboat does indeed have a very strong bond with the community. We have generations of families who have supported the lifeboat in various ways, from crew to fundraising. Community support is imperative, especially in these changing times.
Can you tell us a bit about the training and preparation that continues through the holiday season?
Training and preparation for the crew continues all year, and not just at Christmas; this is essential to maintain our 24-hour search and rescue service. Our training sessions are usually on Wednesday evenings throughout the year. We make sure we get some training launches in earlier in December, as the two main weeks around Christmas can be a very busy time for the crew and their families. We sometimes give the boat a rest the week before Christmas, and the crew might have a Christmas catch-up instead. Unless we are called out in an emergency, of course!
What inspires crew members to volunteer their time, especially at moments when most of us are settling in by the fire?
To be a member of the crew does indeed require a great deal of dedication. To be part of a team and the incredible satisfaction of helping those in need and distress are a great inspiration and motivation to us all. Also, to give back to the community that we are all part of, alongside the other local rescue teams, such as the Fire Brigade, the Coastguard Team and the First Responders.
For visitors of the Christmas Fayre, what’s one thing you’d love them to know about the work you do behind the scenes?
There is so much work behind the scenes, and we would love people to know more about the tireless work of our fundraisers and supporters. Most of this work goes on quietly in the background while all the focus is on the lifeboat and the crew. Without our fundraisers and supporters, we would not be able to continue. Their sterling efforts also deserve celebrating!
How can families and supporters help the Padstow Lifeboat this Christmas, whether through donations, volunteering, or raising awareness?
Any support in any way is greatly appreciated. The fundraising team is always after new members. Any time that can be spared would be greatly appreciated by us all. If you would like to get involved as part of the fundraising team for Padstow RNLI please call Padstow Supporter Liaison 07736 905935 for further information.
The Padstow Lifeboat has a rich history. Is there a particular moment from the past that still motivates the team today?
Our station’s history is very important and Padstow’s rich tradition of saving lives at sea. Our past rescues and indeed those crews that have gone before us continue to motivate and inspire us.
What are you hoping for in the year ahead, both at sea and here in Padstow?
Every year is different, and we take each new year as it comes.
Michael England, Mechanic/Second Coxswain, Padstow RNLI
