Statement from Ramsgate Town Council in Support of the RNLI

Ramsgate Town Council is deeply disappointed and dismayed by the recent attacks, abuse and misinformation directed towards the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and its volunteers.

The RNLI has been saving lives at sea for more than 200 years and remains an apolitical organisation dedicated to one simple purpose: preventing loss of life at sea. As the RNLI has recently reaffirmed, its volunteer crews launch whenever requested by HM Coastguard and provide assistance without judgement, fear or favour. Recent abuse and threats directed at RNLI volunteers and staff are wholly unacceptable.

Ramsgate has a particularly close and proud relationship with the RNLI. The first Ramsgate lifeboat station was established in 1802, predating the formation of the RNLI itself in 1824. Since then, generations of Ramsgate crews have launched in all conditions to assist those in danger at sea, building a proud tradition of courage, service and sacrifice that remains at the heart of the town's identity today. In recognition of this remarkable legacy and the continuing dedication of its volunteers, Ramsgate Town Council awarded the Honorary Freedom of the Town to Ramsgate RNLI, the highest honour the Council can bestow.

The Council awarded this honour because of the RNLI's extraordinary contribution to the town and its residents. For more than two centuries, RNLI volunteers have placed themselves in harm's way to save people they have never met, regardless of circumstance, demonstrating the very highest standards of public service, courage and humanity. Their work extends beyond rescues, promoting water safety, engaging with schools and community groups, and helping to make Ramsgate a safer place for residents and visitors alike.

Councillor Steve Albon, Chair of Ramsgate Town Council, said:

"The RNLI represents the very best of Ramsgate and the very best of our country. For more than 200 years, Ramsgate lifeboat crews have stood ready to answer the call, regardless of who needed help or the circumstances they faced. Their courage, professionalism and humanity have become part of Ramsgate's identity. The first Ramsgate lifeboat station was established in 1802, and successive generations of volunteers have continued that proud tradition of saving lives at sea.

It is therefore deeply upsetting to see brave volunteers subjected to abuse simply for carrying out the lifesaving role that they have performed with distinction for over two centuries. Those who crew our lifeboats are our neighbours, friends, family members and colleagues. They volunteer their time, often at considerable personal sacrifice, to help others in their moment of greatest need.

Ramsgate Town Council stands firmly with the RNLI, its crews, staff and supporters. We were proud to award the Freedom of the Town to Ramsgate RNLI because they embody the very values that make our community strong: courage, selflessness, service and compassion.

The RNLI's mission is simple: to save lives at sea. It is a mission that has earned the respect and gratitude of generations of Ramsgate residents, and one that deserves our support, not hostility. Our message today is simple: we thank the RNLI, we support the RNLI, and we will continue to stand alongside those who dedicate themselves to keeping others safe at sea."

Ramsgate Town Council echoes the RNLI's call for people to challenge misinformation and remember the extraordinary contribution that lifeboat crews make every day around the coasts of the United Kingdom and Ireland. Whatever views people may hold on wider political issues, threatening or abusing volunteers who are carrying out a lifesaving service is never acceptable. The RNLI's mission is, and always has been, to save lives at sea.

For over 200 years, Ramsgate's lifeboat crews have answered the call when others were in danger. They have earned the admiration and respect of the town through their actions, not their words. Ramsgate Town Council is proud of that history, proud to have awarded the Freedom of the Town to the RNLI, and proud to stand with its volunteers today.