Funding Goal Exceeded for Historic Lifeboat Station Upgrade

A collective community initiative aimed at supporting the modernization of one of Scotland’s most historic RNLI boathouses has successfully surpassed its fundraising goal. Fundraisers in the local area had set an objective to collect £50,000, contributing to the total £1.2 million required for the establishment of a cutting-edge facility in Kirkcudbright. Over a period of five months, £60,000 has already been secured, and organizers now aim to accumulate further funds before construction commences next year. The volunteer crew has operated from a 19th-century boathouse since the lifeboat station’s founding in 1892, and there is now an ambition to update it to contemporary standards. May Brown, who holds the position of president for the Stewarty of Kirkcudbright RNLI fundraising group, stated: “The boathouse has hardly changed since it was established over 130 years ago.” She added: “The new boathouse will bring our facilities into the 21st Century and give the volunteer crew the facilities they deserve.” Brown conveyed that the group felt “absolutely delighted and overwhelmed” by the extensive support provided by the community. “It means the world to all of us here at Kirkcudbright RNLI,” he said. She further remarked: “The community have really got behind the appeal and supported us, which is brilliant to see.” Jill Hepburn, the RNLI’s head of region for Scotland, indicated that the response had “amazed” them. Hepburn affirmed: “Every single penny raised will go towards the £1.2m needed to provide the volunteers at Kirkcudbright RNLI with a new boathouse and modern facilities,” she said. She concluded by saying: “We would like to thank everyone for their generosity and support with this appeal so far.” Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC assumes no responsibility for the content of external websites. Details regarding our policy on external linking are available.