RNLI The Pride of Lytham

Lifeboat Heroics Retold as The Sidings Marks Lytham’s Proud RNLI Heritage

Visitors to The Sidings, our award-winning community on Wharf Street, Lytham were transported back to one of the most dramatic nights in maritime history recently when Chris Wrigley, RNLI Visits Officer, delivered an illustrated talk on the 1886 Mexico lifeboat disaster.

Image courtesy of the RNLI Press Office

Mr Wrigley’s presentation traced the fateful gale of 10 December 1886, when three lifeboats from Lytham, St Annes and Southport launched to aid the stricken German barque Mexico. Although Lytham’s Charles Biggs rescued all 12 sailors, the other two boats capsized, claiming the lives of 27 volunteers – still the worst single tragedy in RNLI history.

Image courtesy of the RNLI Press Office

After an engaging Q&A, guests enjoyed a traditional afternoon tea prepared by The Sidings’ hospitality team before raising a toast to the modern-day crews who continue the charity’s lifesaving work.

• The RNLI has been saving lives since 1824; over 200 years of voluntary service at sea.
• Many RNLI volunteers come from multiple generations of the same family creating a tradition passed down through coastal communities.
• The Lytham lifeboat station has been operating since 1851, making it one of the oldest in the UK.
• Every day, the RNLI launches its lifeboats an average of 25 times across the UK and Ireland.
• The RNLI’s volunteer crew members often live and work in the same towns they protect, including Lytham.
• Since its founding, the RNLI has saved over 144,000 lives.
• Not just lifeboats, the RNLI also provides lifeguard services on over 240 UK beaches.
• The iconic RNLI lifeboat crews wear bright yellow waterproofs and orange lifejackets designed for visibility in the toughest conditions.
• The motto of the RNLI is: “With courage, nothing is impossible.”

Chris Wrigley commented: “The courage shown that night off Lytham’s coast underlines why the RNLI has remained part of this community’s DNA for nearly 200 years – ordinary people prepared to do extraordinary things for strangers.”

Victoria Demirier, General Manager at The Sidings, said: “Events like this bring history to life and reflect the sense of togetherness we enjoy here every day, learning something new, sharing good company and enjoying a slice of cake.”

Alexandra Johnson, Sales and Marketing Director said: “Our RNLI event was a resounding success and very popular with our guests. Chris gave a fascinating presentation, and we’re grateful to him and all the volunteers who do such a wonderful job supporting our local community.”

Named Housing Scheme of the Year at the Health Investor Seniors Housing Awards 2023, and recognised as one of the best retirement communities in Britain by the Daily Mail earlier this year, The Sidings includes one, two and three-bedroom apartments together with a restaurant, homeowners’ lounge, coffee lounge, hair salon, therapy suite and landscaped gardens, all designed to support the independence, well-being and happiness of its homeowners.

Explore this thriving community or read more about the health and well-being benefits of becoming a homeowner in a retirement living community.

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