Five most dramatic RNLI lifeboat rescues of 2020

Video of the five most dramatic RNLI rescues from 2020, highlighting the incredibly challenging conditions that its lifesavers have braved to save others. The compilation of clips includes helmet cam footage from Porthcawl RNLI volunteers onboard the charity's Atlantic 85 lifeboat, 'Rose of the Shires' rescuing a surfer in huge breaking waves who had been swept out in a rip current. The dramatic footage also shows Hastings RNLI lifeboat almost capsizing after launching to a surfer in trouble during the very violent Storm Ciara in February this year. The video is a good reminder of how the charity’s lifesavers put their lives on the line to save others. Around the UK and Ireland, many volunteer crews have battled horrendous weather this year. Most recently, three lifeboats from Dunmore East, Kilmore Quay and Rosslare Harbour faced strong winds and breaking seas as they battled for hours to save a 4,000-tonne coaster and nine crew from being washed onto the rocks. The video also features crews from Oban in Scotland who face biting winds during Storm Ciara as they were called to a group of divers reported to be in difficulty and in Northern Ireland, local people captured video of Portrush RNLI when their all-weather lifeboat launched in stormy seas to rescue a surfer, with a lifeboat crew member jumping in to save the young man. Figures over the last 10 years for the festive period show that RNLI lifeboats will launch on average 111 times, and aid 55 people back to safety with many volunteers having their festive celebrations interrupted. Jayne George, RNLI Fundraising Director, says: ‘The most challenging weather of the winter is likely still to come and our lifesavers are ready to face it. This Christmas, our dedicated volunteers are prepared to leave their loved ones at a moment’s notice to save complete strangers.’ RNLI crews have continued to save lives during the pandemic and faced a busy summer as lockdown restrictions were eased. The charity has purchased £1.2M worth of coronavirus PPE to keep their lifesavers and the public safe. This was money the charity hadn’t planned to spend, at a time when RNLI shops were forced to close and fundraising events were cancelled. Jayne continues, ‘As a charity, our RNLI lifesavers rely on the support of the public so they can continue to save lives. Our fundraising has taken a huge hit this year which is why we've launched a Christmas Appeal at: RNLI.org/Xmas.' If you'd like to specifically support Porthcawl RNLI please donate to our festive fundraiser and help us reach our target. 100% of your donation will stay right here in Porthcawl. To donate visit:   / 328896291826037