Call to acknowledge 200 years of RNLI

Call to acknowledge 200 years of RNLI

19 February 2025

NEWRY, Mourne and Down Council has been asked to recognise Newcastle RNLI which in May is celebrating 200 years of saving lives at sea.

The lifeboat station was first established in 1825 in Rossglass with the support of the Co Down District Association of the Institution before moving to St John’s Point Coastguard Station where it remained until 1843. 

At this time, there was no lifeboat in Dundrum Bay until the Institution placed one in Newcastle in 1854 following numerous wrecks, including the tragic Newcastle fishing disaster in 1843 and the stranding of the SS Great Britain in 1846.

Mournes councillor Willie Clarke the “invaluable contribution” Newcastle RNLI has made to the safety and wellbeing of sea farers in South Down should be formally recognised.

“Newcastle RNLI has been a beacon of hope and safety for our coastal communities for two centuries. Its dedication to saving lives at sea and their unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of sea farers is truly commendable,” he said

“It is only fitting that we, as a Council, acknowledge and celebrate their remarkable achievements and the positive impact they have had on our region.”

He continued: “Newcastle’s RNLI presence in South Down has not only saved countless lives but has also fostered a sense of community and resilience among our residents.

“By recognising their 200th anniversary, we can express our gratitude and ensure that their legacy continues to inspire future generations.”

The resort’s Slieve Donard Hotel is hosting a gala ball which is one of several planned events to mark the 200-year milestone, with the RNLI looking for volunteers to help.

Newcastle lifeboat station has been a part of the lives of so many in the resort and surrounding area, with  the 200th organising committee keen to hear people’s stories, view their photos and share their memories.  

Committee members are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have been rescued by the lifeboat crew over the years.

Newcastle RNLI 200 committee member Nathan Leneghan said there is such a rich history of saving lives at sea in Newcastle that members would love to hear from people who can reminisce and share their own nostalgic moments from the last 200 years.

“We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who has been rescued by our volunteer crew,” he said.

“We would also ask that anyone with old photos or memorabilia relating to Newcastle RNLI gets in touch as we would really like to incorporate these into our celebrations.”

Tickets for the anniversary gala ball which is formal dress on May 9 are priced £65. The event begins with at 7pm sharp preceded by a Captain’s drinks reception at 6.30pm.

Tickets are available from Orlaith on 07732 818230 or on Trez 07734 050022.

Anyone who believes they can assist the 200th anniversary committee is asked to get in touch via Newcastle@rnli.org.uk or sending a private message to the station Facebook page.