For 200 years, the RNLI - the Royal National Lifeboat Institution - has been saving lives at sea. Funded entirely by donations, and with lifeboats crewed by trained volunteers, the RNLI is available 24/7.
In the 19th century, there were around 1,800 shipwrecks around the UK every year. Living in Douglas on the Isle of Man, Sir William Hillary saw the treacherous nature of the sea and was inspired to help. He wrote a pamphlet detailing plans for a lifeboat service, and targeted London society, garnering the support of politicians, philanthropists, bankers and, finally, George IV. The Royal National Institution for the Preservation of Life from Shipwreck (as it was known for 30 years) was finally established in a London tavern on 4 March 1824. Although its name has changed, the RNLI's mission has stayed much the same, and it continues to save lives all around the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Real-life rescues
Gianna Saccomani, 60, now retired, joined the RNLI (Teddington) seven years ago.
'I'd lived opposite the lifeboat station for a few years when, one day, I met a crew member and he said, 'Why don't you volunteer?' I thought, I can't do that, I have no boating experience. But it turns out you can teach an old dog new tricks.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Patchwork PROJECTS
Easy ideas to show off English paper-piecing techniques
Night train to BERLIN
Germany's exciting and varied capital is now reachable by train from the UK
French FANCY
Raymond Blanc's right-hand man, Benoit Blin's favourite bakes
Are you missing out on BENEFITS?
Here's how to find out what you are eligible for
TRAY bien
All-in-one tray bakes, packed with flavour
We took a grown-up GAP YEAR!
Who says taking time out is just for students?
'I'm obsessed with reality TV!'
THIS WEEK'S COLUMNIST Author and presenter Louise Minchin
What to eat and do for A HEALTHIER GUT
Fix those problems and boost your wellbeing
Picture palaces
In an age of cinema complexes, we celebrate five historic and beautiful picture houses that have stood the test of time
'My diet during Bake Off is cake and alcohol!'
Dame Prue Leith on the popular baking contest