23 February 2016
Midlands housebuilder Walton Homes has donated £500 to the RNLI to buy essential crew kit to enable the charity to carry out its sea rescue work.
Walton Homes, which launched the 30 Wishes campaign last year to mark 30 years in business, is gradually granting wishes to charities, organisations and individuals who would benefit from a little extra financial support.
The Burton and South Derbyshire branch of the RNLI was nominated to the business and was immediately agreed to be a worthy recipient for the developer’s help.
Amy Summerton, director of Walton Homes, said that the business was delighted to lend its support to buy inshore lifeboat kit to the charity.
“More than 4,500 courageous men and women all over the UK and Republic of Ireland volunteer as crew for the RNLI, giving up their time, skill and commitment in order to help the charity save lives at sea, and it’s crucial that those volunteers have the very best protective clothing when they’re putting their lives on the line to save those of others in need.
“There is a common misconception that the RNLI only operates at sea, but that’s not the case. Having built a number of developments close to waterways over the past three decades, we’re well aware that the service operates on UK waterways, and has certainly provided a lifeline in recent weeks with the terrible flooding the UK has suffered.
“We’re proud to donate £500 to the RNLI to buy more lifeboat thermal suits and inshore lifeboat gloves to help protect their teams as they carry out their amazing work. Any one of us could need their support at any time,” she added.
Dave Bone, Chairman and Hon Treasurer of the Burton & South Derbyshire Branch of the RNLI, said: “The inshore lifeboat crew kit not only keeps our crew warm while out at sea, it can save their lives when rescues get dangerous. It is essential that we keep each volunteer’s crew kit fully functional and provide replacements if necessary. After all, without their protective kit, many of our crew members would never have made it home safely.
“We’re very grateful to Walton Homes for recognising and supporting the work that RNLI does and for donating funds towards new equipment – it’s very much appreciated and without ongoing support from organisations like them we couldn’t continue our work,” he added.
