RNLI 200th anniversary scroll coming to Argyll and Bute this week

The event, which started on March 4, sees a scroll, bearing the RNLI pledge, being passed through RNLI communities – lifeboat stations, shops, lifeguard units and fundraising branches – around the UK and Ireland and being signed by representatives at each location. 

The scroll will arrive in Tobermory on June 15, Oban on June 20, Mallaig on June 21 and Kyle of Lochalsh on June 22. 

The pledge reads: "Whoever we are, wherever we are from, we are one crew, ready to save lives. We’re powered by passion, talent and kindness, like generations of selfless lifesavers before us. This is our watch, we lead the way, valuing each other, trusting each other, depending on one another, volunteering to face the storm together. Knowing that, with courage, nothing is impossible. That is what has always driven us to save every one we can. It’s what makes every one of us a lifesaver."

Beneath the pledge, printed in English, Irish Gaelic, Welsh, Scottish Gaelic, Ulster Scots, Manx and Cornish, it says: "Signed in 2024 by representatives of the RNLI’s lifesaving communities, on behalf of all who strive to save every one."

Anjie Rook, RNLI associate director, who is overseeing the RNLI’s 200th anniversary programmes, said: "The Connecting our Communities relay is one of the most significant events of the RNLI’s 200th anniversary year as it’s all about our people.

"For 200 years, it is people who have made the RNLI what it is – from our brave lifesavers who risk their lives to save others, to the committed fundraisers and generous donors who fund our lifesaving work."

When the journey is completed, the scroll will be displayed in the RNLI College in Poole, where the charity’s lifeboat crews and lifeguards are trained.