(More pictures added, courtesy of James Burdass and others)
RNLI lifeboats are more usually associated with the sea than the River Thames, but some of the busiest lifeboat stations in the country are in fact right here in central London. And for one day only, on Saturday 9 November, you can see lifeboat up close as it makes its way sedately along the city streets in this year's The Lord Mayor's Show.
The Worshipful Company of Fuellers and the lifesaving charity the RNLI are proud to be teaming up for this year's show. Both organisations have roots in the City of London, and both are celebrating important milestones in 2024. It is 40 years since the Worshipful Company of Fuellers - the City of London livery company for the energy industry regained its Livery Status, and 200 years since the RNLI was founded at a meeting at the London Tavern on Bishopsgate.
They are connected in another way too, as Master Fueller Elena Oderstone explains: The Fuellers actively participate in philanthropic initiatives through the Fuellers Charitable Trust Fund. Thanks to Past Master Doug Barrow MBE, this year we celebrate 20 years of contributing towards fuel costs at Tower RNLI Lifeboat Station in central London.
"Today, our members come from across the full spectrum of the energy sector, including electricity, renewables, hydrogen, coal, oil, gas, nuclear and specialised areas within those industries. Beyond our strong industry connections, we also have extensive military affiliations.'
The RNLI's Chief Executive Peter Sparkes says: We're very grateful to the Worshipful Company of Fuellers for their generous support and for giving the RNLI this unique opportunity to celebrate our 200th anniversary, just a mile from Tower RNLI Lifeboat Station - the RNLI's busiest lifeboat station located at Waterloo Bridge.
The theme of our joint entry is Inspiration'. "We want to inspire and engage a new generation of lifesavers and supporters to secure our lifesaving services for another 200 years, says Peter. ́2024 is also a timely opportunity to celebrate the achievements of our crew, our volunteers, our communities and our supporters and commemorate all those who have selflessly given their lives to help save others and freely given their time, energy and passion for our cause.
To that end, the charity will be showcasing one of its Atlantic 85 class lifeboats - one of the fastest lifeboats in the fleet, which will be towed through the streets of London by an INEOS Grenadier, the official vehicle of RNLI lifeboats. Alongside will be volunteer crew and some of those they've rescued, together with representatives from the Fuellers, Sea Cadets and pupils from a local maritime school.
Peter says: 'Our partnership with the Worshipful Company of Fuellers helps ensure we are ready to save lives for another 200 years. The Lord Mayor's Show is a wonderful opportunity for us to promote our respective causes, raise awareness of water safety and have fun. Whether you're taking part or watching on, I hope you enjoy the parade!"
The Worshipful Company of FUELLERS
For more information visit www.rnli.org and www.fuellers.co.uk
