RNLI lifesavers from Lough Ree prepare to answer the call this Christmas

As the RNLI comes to the end of its milestone 200th year, the charity is launching its annual Christmas fundraising appeal, with a focus on the volunteer crew members who are preparing to spend Christmas on call.

On average, RNLI lifeboats launch over 100 times during the Christmas period every year. Whatever weather winter throws at them, RNLI crews are ready to battle the elements to save lives at sea.

These rescues, and others all year round, are only made possible by the RNLI’s generous supporters, helping to fund the essential kit, training and equipment needed to keep crews prepared and protected.

Christmas is a time for family and friends, but the RNLI’s volunteer crews are ready to leave their own celebrations this festive season and answer the call for help.

Just one of the thousands of crew members preparing for a Christmas on call is Kevin Ganly, volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager at Lough Ree RNLI.

Lough Ree RNLI is based at Coosan Point, Athlone and serves lakeside and riverside communities in counties Longford, Westmeath and Roscommon.

Though one of the youngest RNLI lifeboat stations in the country, Lough Ree RNLI is also one of the busiest, responding to upwards of 40 calls for assistance every year.

Kevin Ganly said: "There’s no feeling quite like bringing someone home safe to their families – especially at Christmas. Even at this time of year, people still get in trouble in the water, and we’re all prepared to leave our own celebrations to help them.

‘But as volunteer lifeboat crew we couldn’t launch without kind donations from the public which fund the kit, training and equipment we need to save others and get home safely to our own families."

To make a donation to the RNLI’s Christmas Appeal, and enable the charity to continue its lifesaving work, visit: RNLI.org/WinterAppeal