The RNLI received the prestigious IMechE Heritage Award from the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) in recognition of technical innovations in the collection of lifeboats that it hosts at its historic collection in Chatham Historic Dockyard, Kent.
The collection was given this honour for showcasing the importance of both past and present mechanical innovation and design. The engineering journey is told through 20 lifeboats and equipment, highlighting lifeboat technology from the 1890s to the modern day.
The IMechE Heritage Committee presented the award to Ian Russell, RNLI Lifeboat Collection Gallery Manager, who accepted it on behalf of the charity.
John Wood, IMechE Engineering Heritage Committee Chair said: ‘’While the Institution’s Engineering Heritage Award is usually given to individual artefacts, this award is for the entire collection of lifeboats at Chatham. The RNLI Historic Lifeboat Collection shows the evolution of lifeboats, their continual improvement and the use of innovation for the public good.’
Also celebrated during the ceremony, RNLI Fundraising and Heritage Volunteer David Cox received a long service award for his 60 years of volunteering. Previous Chair of the RNLI, Charles Hunter-Pease, presented David with his clasp to medal.
David said: ‘In 1964, I was rescued by Eastbourne lifeboat and this inspired me to get involved. I am deeply humbled to receive the Long-Service Award for my voluntary service at the RNLI. I have loved volunteering for the charity, and it has been a privilege to assist with fundraising whilst championing the RNLI’s incredible heritage.’
May also marked the 30th anniversary of the opening of the lifeboat gallery at Chatham. Chatham Dockyard CEO and local firms who have supported the lifeboat gallery, including the rotary club, attended the event.
Ross Barraclough, Chief Engineer and Technical Director of the RNLI said: ‘We are honoured that the RNLI National Collection of Historic Lifeboats has been the recipient of this prestigious IMechE Heritage Award. The collection documents such a crucial part of the RNLI’s engineering history and tells the story of over 200 years of saving lives at sea.
‘We extend our most sincere thanks to IMechE and Chatham Dockyard, who house the important collection.’
