Porsche Fundraisers Smash £130k Target to Buy New RNLI Lifeboat

A gruelling coastal journey raises enough for a new lifeboat and crew training

Belinda and James Richardson have raised over £130,000 for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) after an epic challenge visiting all 238 lifeboat stations across the UK and Ireland. The couple, travelling in a Porsche 911, successfully smashed their target to fund a new D class inshore lifeboat, complete with maintenance costs and training for three volunteer crew members.

911 Hours of Dedication

Starting at Morecambe Lifeboat Station in Lancashire on 23 August, Belinda and James completed their challenge 911 hours later at Peel Lifeboat Station on the Isle of Man. Along the way, they encountered gruelling days but were continually inspired by the kindness and dedication of RNLI volunteers.

“It was fantastic, quite gruelling at times,” said Belinda. “On the days when we struggled to get up at 5am, we’d meet the crews and immediately they’d lift our spirits. Everyone we met at the RNLI went beyond the call of duty.”

The new D class inshore lifeboat, named RNLI 911 Challenge, will join the RNLI’s relief fleet, ready to save lives anywhere around the UK and Ireland. These lifeboats are a critical part of the RNLI’s operations, having saved 96 lives and helped over 2,000 people in 2023 alone.

Supporters Rally Behind the Cause

The Richardsons credited the overwhelming generosity of their sponsors for surpassing their fundraising goal. “They were donating because they wanted us to get that boat, and we’re glad we could deliver on that promise,” Belinda said.

Jayne George, RNLI Director of Fundraising, praised the couple’s achievement, saying, “The kindness of supporters like Belinda and James means so much to us. Without them we could not save lives at sea; every one is a lifesaver.”

The funds raised will not only cover the cost of the lifeboat but also contribute towards its upkeep and the vital training and equipment needed for its crew.

Learn More

Belinda and James have shared their journey and details of their challenge on their website, RNLI 911 Challenge.

Their extraordinary efforts have been a testament to the power of determination and community support in helping the RNLI continue its lifesaving work.

Photo: Belinda and James Richardson visited all 238 RNLI lifeboat stations in their Porsche 911 Credit: RNLI