The Friends Open Day was enjoyed by all, the weather was cool but bright and warm in the sun. Many Friends travelled some considerable distance to attend, I spoke to one couple from Bolton in Lancashire. The day was a relaxed affair providing the opportunity to meet the crew view the lifeboats, including the refurbished Shirley Jean Adye, with a guided tour thanks to Harry and Gisli.
The New ILB Tractor.
At 2.30 p.m. The Friends gathered in the New lifeboat Station for the official handing over of the new ILB tractor. Pictured below are DSCF0001 - Alastair Brown moves the Old ILB tractor, DSCF0002 to 4 the new Kobuta tractor with the ILB trailer attached.
Pictures DSCF0012 to 15 show The Chairman of the Beccles Branch of The Caister Lifeboat, Chris Punt with Chairman of CVLS, Harry Barker talking to the Friends about how the Beccles Branch had raised the funds and given support for Caister lifeboat for over 20 years. DSCF0019 shows the Revd T Thompson blessing the new tractor. During the talk Chris Punt had mentioned that it was his birthday and he would have fond memories of the day. Officiating on the day was the High Steward of Great Yarmouth, Mr Micheal Falcon who urged the Friends to sing "Happy Birthday" for Mr Punt - DSCF0022. Following some applause, the Treasure of the Friends Mike Randall stepped forward to present a cheque for £2,000 on behalf of the Friends of Caister Lifeboat which was received by Harry Barker, Chairman. DSCF0028 shows the official photo for the handing over of the keys of the new ILB Tractor.
Further gifts and support.
Also showing support for the lifeboat were a gentleman handing over a wooden model classic car DSCF0031 pictured with the crew and Chris and Jane Rose seen handing over a cheque to Chairman Harry Barker and Jackie Dixon, Fund Raising Secretary - DSCF0034.
Afternoon Lifeboat Launches.
At about 3.00 p.m. both lifeboats launched. Pictures DSCF0048 to 95 show the Bernard Matthews II returning to shore and its second launch of the day.
The Friends Open Day appears to have been enjoyed by the many that attended Special thanks go to the Mrs Gibson and the other ladies who took care of the refreshments.
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