Lifeboat open day hailed a success despite the weather

Appalling weather did not stop the Lerwick Lifeboat open day raising more money than last year’s fund-raiser.

The RNLI’s annual event on Saturday on Victoria Pier brought in £7,720 for the charity – an increase of more than £200 on last year’s event.

President of the Lerwick Ladies Lifeboat Guild, Moira Leask, said: “We had a very successful day despite the appalling weather.

“We were delighted to have Stevie Grant and the Jarl squad attend and present two cheques – one for £1,100 from the squad’s own fund-raising effort and another for £973 from J W Gray for a sponsorship deal taking place over the Up-Helly-A’ period.”

The latter will be split between Lerwick RNLI and Anderson High School Additional Support Needs department.

She said the NorthLink trip around Bressay and Noss had proved popular, attracting 270 people. Passengers on the Hjaltland for the trip enjoyed a display by the lifeboat and fast rescue craft from the Hjaltland, as well as being able top watch the gannets diving off Noss.

Mrs Leask added: “As always, we are indebted to NorthLink’s on-board and shore side staff for their support.

“We had a range of stalls on the pier – and are very grateful to all those that came out to both help and support such a worthy cause. Special thanks must go to the Lerwick Brass Band who played amazing music in the pouring rain!

“It is gratifying that the people of Shetland continue to support the lifeboat – recognising the value of a service that is at the heart of our community.”

More photographs in The Shetland Times on Friday.