‘Senseless act’ of vandalism at Bridlington RNLI Lifeboat Station sparks police appeal

Humberside Police is appealing for information following an incident of criminal damage at the Bridlington RNLI Lifeboat Station on South Marine Drive.

The incident occurred between 7:00 PM on Monday, November 25, 2024, and 7:00 AM on Tuesday, November 26, during which six windows at the station were damaged by unknown individuals.

The RNLI, a charity dedicated to saving lives at sea, will now face costs to repair the damage, diverting valuable resources away from its critical lifesaving mission.

“This senseless act has impacted an essential service that relies on public donations and the dedication of volunteers,” said a police spokesperson.

Officers are urging anyone with information to come forward. If you witnessed anything suspicious in the area or have details that could assist the investigation, please contact Humberside Police on 101, quoting reference 24000168222.

Members of the public are encouraged to support efforts to identify those responsible.

Bridlington Lifeboat Station, is a vital part of the RNLI’s lifesaving network. Operating from a modern facility, the station is equipped with two highly specialised lifeboats: an all-weather Shannon-class lifeboat and an inshore D-class lifeboat. The Shannon-class vessel is a cutting-edge, high-speed boat designed for challenging rescues far from shore, while the D-class lifeboat is perfect for rapid responses closer to the coastline.

The station is run by a dedicated team of volunteers, including lifeboat crews, shore crews, and support staff, all committed to the RNLI’s mission of saving lives at sea. Since its establishment in 1805, Bridlington Lifeboat Station has been involved in hundreds of rescues, evolving alongside advances in lifeboat technology. Over the years, the bravery of its crews has been recognized with numerous RNLI gallantry awards, celebrating their dedication and courage.

In 2017, the station underwent significant upgrades, reopening with a state-of-the-art facility. The new building includes improved amenities for the crew, enhanced storage for lifeboats, and spaces designed to engage with the public. Located on the North Sea coast, Bridlington Lifeboat Station is strategically positioned to safeguard the region’s fishermen, sailors, and tourists, playing a crucial role in maritime safety.