Belfast had its very own RNLI lifeboat station for a long weekend in July when Bangor and Red Bay volunteers provided extra rescue cover for the Tall Ships Race. Around 750,000 visitors poured into the city for the 4-day event and our lifesavers were at the very heart of the activities, at the ready with a relief Atlantic 85 lifeboat in the marina. Donaghadee’s all-weather lifeboat crew were also afloat for the Sunday parade.

The RNLI was one of five charities that benefited from the event and visitors got a close look at our rescue gear, chatted to crew and lifeguards and had a go at dressing up in lifeboat kit. Darren Byers, RNLI Divisional Operations Manager, said: ‘The inshore lifeboat responded to six service calls with thankfully no injured casualties. Belfast looked stunning during the event and the departing sight of the parade of Tall Ships accompanied by RNLI lifeboats is one that will stay with me for a long time.’