RNLI: 200 years at the heart of maritime life in Ireland and Britain 

A colourised photo from 1929 of the inauguration of a new RNLI lifeboat. The photo was taken in Brighton but could have been taken at RNLI stations at the heart of seafaring communities dotted all around Ireland and Britain. Picture: RNLI/PA Wire

From battling treacherous seas with everything from wooden oars to state-of-the-art lifeboats, the RNLI remains steadfast in its mission — to save lives and offer a beacon of hope to coastal communities.

A remarkable history, from the sinking of the Lusitania to the Fastnet race, and countless tragedies in between, this weekend the RNLI celebrates 200 years of rescues and lives saved. Events across the country will give thanks to a legion of courageous volunteers past and present prepared to take to the roughest of seas at a moment’s notice.