'... in every way magnificent’

I was rescued by Lymington lifeboat crew on 15 July after my finger was severed. They arrived in only 7 minutes and were in every way magnificent. I lost my finger when I caught my wedding ring on a cleat and am keen that sailors know to take their rings off when sailing. As a result of my experience I feel a huge debt of gratitude to the Lymington crew who rescued me, and gave me so much confidence.

Ally Purchon, Stratford-upon-Avon

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‘I capsized and had to swim back’

This morning (16 October) after hitting a log just after Chiswick Pier, I capsized and had to swim back with my boat to the bank. I would like to thank the people who called the Coastguard and, of course, thank the RNLI itself – as they were extremely quick and took great care of me and my boat.

Unfortunately as I was in a state of shock due to the cold water, I cannot remember their names (I think the lady was called Victoria) but I hope they will recognise themselves if they ever read this. Thank you very much!

Marine Schreiber (via email)

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On Facebook

Sarah Glass
I just saw news footage or one of your lifeboat crews out in incredibly rough seas searching for a teenage lad ... and now I'm off to your website to make a donation. Thanks for putting yourselves in harm's way in order to help others.

Stephen McGrath
Busy day on Perranporth beach yesterday, half term, good surf and amazing warm weather kept this guy (pictured) on his toes. Keep up the good work, it's because of the RNLI that we are able to visit the beach in confidence.

On Twitter

From @ByrdeSong
The Charles Russell team steaming to the finish line in the RNLI Big Lifeboat Pull …

From Sian Lloyd
@SianWeather Praying to weather gods to go easy on the new Mumbles lifeboat crew! Let’s hear it for the RNLI …

From @PjMurphy1
Daughter’s homework was to create a recruitment poster, great isn’t it!

From @RedcarRNLI
Another shot from last night’s flare training at Redcar.