'Real honour' to have flagpole from Ramsey RNLI as part of anniversary scroll

Operation Manager Kevin Christian says he hopes the commitment to saving lives in the town continues

A scroll bearing the signatures of over 900 representatives from the RNLI as well as the Duke of Kent has been on display over the weekend.

It's travelled all around Britain before coming back to where the organisation started and features the charity's pledge printed in seven languages including Manx.

Peel and Ramsey operation managers Allen Corlett and Kevin Christian say events organised throughout the year have helped raise the profile of the charity on the Island.

Our Local Democracy Reporter Emma Draper spoke to them at the scroll signing:

The spindle ends of the scroll have been created from a 19th-century flagpole from Ramsey Lifeboat Station. 

Mayor of Douglas Natalie Byron-Teare said: "There is no better way to sum up the rich nautical heritage of the Isle of Man than by the lifesaving and fundraising work the RNLI carries out in Manx seas and the countless hours given by loyal volunteer lifeboat crews in our community.

"As a tangible representation of the connection between all RNLI stations, lifeguard units and fundraising branches, it is most fitting that this scroll concludes its journey in Douglas, the birthplace of the RNLI.

"Douglas City Council is delighted to welcome the 'Connecting our Communities' 200th anniversary scroll to be recorded as a permanent and enduring part of the charity’s history."

Chief Executive of the RNLI Peter Sparkes said: "I feel very honoured and privileged to be the penultimate signatory on the scroll and it is especially poignant that I am adding my signature here in Douglas, the birthplace of the RNLI. 

"This is a special year for both the RNLI and Douglas – my congratulations to the city for its recently granted city status. The RNLI is proud to serve the island, and we look forward to continuing our lifesaving heritage here for generations to come."