Local celebrations for the 200th Anniversary of the RNLI are now in full swing – after the service of commemoration at the Christchurch Priory we look forward to the Gala Ball at the Hilton Hotel on 10th May.
Following a welcome drink and entertainment by harpist Anna we will sit down to a three course banquet and enjoy Magic by Alfie coming round the tables.
After auctions and a raffle the evening will reach its climax with dancing to the fabulous Swing Unlimited Big Band.
Tickets and further information from D_Richmond-Coggan@rnli.org.uk (£650 table of 10, £80 individual)
We had a wonderfully emotional and uplifting service of commemoration in the Priory Church, Christchurch where six RNLI communities signed the scroll, led by Andy Russell, President of Mudeford Lifeboat and part of the crew for more than 60 years; Christchurch Lifeguard Joe Reid; 100 year old Cdr David Hawksley, President of Christchurch and Bournemouth Fundraising Branch; and Sally Derham Wilkes, a relative of Ken Durham, the inspiration for a lifeboat at Mudeford in 1963.
The scroll was also signed on behalf of the Water Safety Team and the Salisbury, Wilton and District Branch.
The service was led by the Reverend Canon Charles Stewart who welcomed everyone and paid tribute to the RNLI’s commitment and dedication through 200 years of saving lives at sea and we were joined by the Worshipful Mayors of Christchurch, Councillor Viv Charrett, and Bournemouth, Councillor Anne Filer.