Royal Visit Boosts Spirits at Fistral Beach: Duke of Cornwall Engages with RNLI Lifeguards

In a significant royal visit to Cornwall’s Fistral beach, His Royal Highness The Duke of Cornwall was warmly welcomed by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) team on Thursday, 9 May.

This marked his first official engagement at an RNLI facility in Cornwall since he assumed the title of Duke of Cornwall in 2022.

Royal Arrival and Welcoming

The Duke arrived at Fistral beach just after 1.30 pm and was introduced to key members of the RNLI team, including Robbie, the Head of Lifeguard Services; Henry, the Lifeguard Lead for the southwest; and Lewis, the Lead Lifeguard Supervisor. The Duke took an active interest in the operational details of the lifeguard services, a vital component in beach safety, as demonstrated by the RNLI lifeguards’ impressive record of aiding 6,973 people and saving 26 lives in 2023.

Insightful Observations and Discussions

Following introductions, the Duke observed a training session where RNLI lifeguards demonstrated their skills using an all-terrain vehicle on a specially designed course. His visit continued with a walk to the lifeguard facility where he climbed up to the observation tower to meet duty lifeguards Saul and Elise.

During his tour, His Royal Highness also engaged with several volunteers from Newquay RNLI Lifeboat Station, including Gareth, the volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager and recipient of an MBE. Gareth and his team often collaborate with the Fistral lifeguard team to enhance their coordinated response to rescue missions. Notably, Newquay’s lifeboat station launched 58 rescue missions last year.

Duke of Cornwall chatting to Lewis Timson RNLI Lead Lifeguard Supervisor Robbie Warrington Head of Lifeguards and Henry Irvine Lead Lifeguard

Gifts and Personal Touches

Before departing, the Duke was presented with a copy of ‘To Save Every One’, a book commemorating 200 years of RNLI courage. He also received three RNLI lifeguard towels for his children, a gesture appreciating the royal family’s support for the RNLI’s missions.

Gareth shared his excitement about the Duke’s visit, noting the importance of discussing the lifesaving work and the commitment required from volunteers. He added a personal note, revealing that the Duke wished him a happy birthday during the visit, making it a memorable celebration.

A Commitment to Lifesaving Services

With a background in search and rescue as a former Sea King helicopter pilot for the RAF, the Duke showed a profound interest in the lifesaving efforts of the RNLI. Lewis, who hosted the visit, remarked on the honour and privilege of discussing their critical work with His Royal Highness, who expressed genuine enthusiasm for the lifesaving operations carried out by the RNLI team.

The Duke’s ongoing engagement with RNLI facilities across the UK highlights his deep commitment to supporting the vital services they provide. His recent visits, including meeting volunteers at St Davids Lifeboat Station in Wales with HRH The Duchess of Cornwall, underscore his dedication to the cause.

A Royal Boost for RNLI

This visit not only reinforces the Duke’s support for the lifesaving efforts along the UK’s coastlines but also serves as a morale booster for the volunteers and staff of the RNLI. With such high-profile backing, the RNLI continues to play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of beachgoers and seafarers across the region.