The 60th anniversary of one of the RNLI’s most tragic days was marked at Arbroath in October.

Six crewmen died when the lifeboat Robert Lindsay was struck by huge waves close to the harbour and capsized on 27 October 1953. They had been searching for a vessel in distress. Only one man survived the tragedy, which was commemorated with church services in the town.

‘It is the darkest day in our history here at Arbroath Lifeboat Station, and the sacrifice of those lost has been – and continues to be – an inspiration to generations of crew,’ said Alex Smith, Arbroath Lifeboat Operations Manager. ‘Unfortunately, it also serves as a stark reminder of the risks that volunteer lifeboat crews face to help others at sea.’