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Today marks the 249th birthday of Sir William Hillary, the founder of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. In 1823 Sir William made an impassioned appeal to the nation, calling for a service dedicated to saving lives at sea, and in 1824 the RNLI was founded. | RNLI

Through winter lows and summer highs, our lifesavers spent 2019 battling everything from rough seas to mud flats to rescue those in need. Whether it was a volunteer crew or a lifeguarded beach, thank you for your support which made them all possible. | RNLI

With 3-metre seas and winds gusting to 30 knots, Skerries and Clogherhead Lifeboat launched to the assistance of a 10-metre fishing boat that had suffered engine problems in Dublin Bay. Skerries volunteers were first to arrive and found the skipper in no immediate danger. A tow was started and was then handed over to Clogherhead shortly after. As a team, both lifeboats safely secured the vessel in Skerries Harbour. | RNLI

It may have been a busy autumn, but our lifesavers won't rest this winter to make sure those in need get home for Christmas. And your donations provide the support and equipment they need. Thank you. | RNLI