Lifeboat cash raised at Wick harbour day
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THOUSANDS of people flocked to the waterside to help raise over £8000 for a vital service in Caithness.
The annual Wick Harbour Day took place at the weekend and was hailed a great success by organisers.
Around 3000 people packed the quayside on Saturday to enjoy the various attractions and entertainments that were on offer.
The event, which has been running for over a century, helps raise money for the Wick lifeboat service. Wick lifeboat coxswain Ian Cormack said that it was the most successful event that he can ever remember.
“The harbour was just packed with people!” he said. “We were thrilled with the amount that we raised on Saturday.
“To train a member of staff costs around £1200 and we also have to take into account equipment, maintenance and fuel costs which averages around £10,000 a year.
“We hold various fundraising events throughout the year which are vital to keeping the station open. Without the help of the public we wouldn’t be here and they have always been very supportive to us.”
There was a special presentation during the day made to Emily Morrison (10), from Wick, who was awarded the London Caithness Shield. The trophy is awarded every year to a young person who has helped make a contribution to the local lifeboat service.
Emily received the award after helping members of the crew organise various fundraising events over the past few years.
Mr Cormack said that Emily was a worthy recipient.
“Her father is a member of the lifeboat crew and for the past few years she has helped at every fundraising event we’ve held,” he explained.
“She was up early as well to help organise the Wick Harbour Day and was one of the reasons why it was a big success.
“She has become an important part of the team, helping us raise thousands of pounds, and this was a way of thanking her for all she has done.”
Attractions on the day included demonstrations from the Wick lifeboat crew, Scottish Ambulance Service and Highland and Islands Fire and Rescue Service
Together with the usual stalls and fair games, visitors had plenty to keep them entertained.
The highlight of the day came when a tug-of-war competition took place between Wick lifeboat and local coastguards across the pontoons in the harbour.
The lifeboat team members were victorious with the coastguards ending up with a soaking.
