Statue unveiled to mark 200 years of RNLI

Crowds gathered to watch a statue commemorating 200 years of the RNLI being unveiled in a North Yorkshire coastal town.

Members of the Whitby RNLI crew and volunteers joined the crowds at Khyber Pass, in Whitby, on Saturday to see their station mechanic Richard Dowson’s idea for the sculpture being brought to life.

The sculpture is of Henry Freeman, who was the sole survivor of a lifeboat disaster in 1861.

Lesley Jackson, one of his descendants who donated the full cost of the sculpture after hearing about the idea, said the statue meant a lot to her and her family.

Mr Freeman survived the disaster because he was the only crew member wearing a new cork lifejacket. He later went on to win a medal for his bravery.

During a speech at the unveiling, Ms Jackson said: “It not only represents Henry Freeman's bravery but the bravery of the volunteers who continue to save lives at sea to this day.”

An old rowing lifeboat was also brought along to the event to show people how much technology and equipment has changed over the years.

Mr Dowson said he suggested local artist Emma Stothard should create the statue after seeing a trail of similar sculptures made by her around Whitby.

He said: “Emma Stothard has worked tirelessly on the sculpture, perfectly capturing Henry's character, which is not an easy task with wire, but she has done a fantastic job.

“We hope that both locals and visitors to the town will enjoy the sculpture and pop into the museum to learn more about the RNLI's history in Whitby.

“Many thanks to Lesley for her kind donation which has made this project possible and also many others who have helped along the way.”

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