Manx stamps celebrate 200 years of RNLI in institution's birthplace

A set of stamps is being released to celebrate 200th years of the RNLI in it's Isle of Man birthplace.

The organisation was founded by Sir William Hillary in 1824, with the collection is set to be launched on his birthday on 4 January.

The six stamps depict the island's lifeboats and their stations in Port St Mary, Douglas, Peel, Ramsey and Port Erin.

One honours the founder himself along with Douglas Bay's Tower of Refuge.

Sir William had the building constructed on Conister Rock in 1832 to offer shelter to shipwrecked mariners.

The organisation's chief executive Mark Dowie said it was "proud to recognise the special place the island holds in RNLI history as the institution's birthplace".

"These stamps will help raise awareness for the RNLI in our anniversary year by commemorating our incredible past, celebrating our lifesavers of today, and inspiring the next generation who will continue to save lives in the future," he added.

Chairman of the RNLI's Isle of Man 200th anniversary panel Alan Corlett said: "Our dedicated volunteers across the Isle of Man will be proud to see that the charity's long history and enduring commitment to our lifesaving mission are valued by the community we serve.

"They will inspire our volunteers and supporters, here and further afield, as we celebrate two centuries since Sir William Hillary's vision took root in the Isle of Man."

Similar stamp collections are also being launched in Jersey and Guernsey on 4 March.

Maxine Cannon from Isle of Man Post Office Stamps and Coins said she "couldn't be prouder" of the collection and the collaboration encapsulated "the spirit of solidarity across the British Isles in celebrating the RNLI's extraordinary journey".

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