The display of model boats at the Heron Model Boat Club show at Whitstable RNLI on Sunday Photo: Chris Davey RNLI
The Whitstable RNLI boathouse was rocked by an unprecedented nautical invasion on Sunday! Usually home to only the powerful B-Class lifeboat, the station was temporarily overrun by a fleet of approximately 34 stunning, albeit slightly smaller, vessels!
The Heron Model Boat Club from Herne Bay launched their annual, legendary exhibition, transforming the solemn lifeboat hall into a bustling harbour of miniaturized maritime mastery. With Tugs, Warships, and the Reign of ‘Skullduggery’, visitors were treated to a mesmerizing display featuring everything from detailed warships and hard-working fishing vessels to, fittingly, several scaled-down lifeboats. But the undisputed champions of the fleet, it seems, were the tugs, which proved hugely popular among club members, with a great number on display!
Club representative Robin Graham reported a massive turnout, saying,
“We had about 500 visitors! It was brilliant fun putting on the show and meeting everyone right here at the station. Plus, we managed to raise just over £141.00 for the Whitstable RNLI!”
The competition for the coveted ‘Best in Show’ title was fierce, but in the end, there could only be one victor. The crowd-favourite was Kevin Palin and his incredible craft, ‘Skullduggery,’ which sailed away with the top honours!
A Partnership That Floats All Boats
The Heron Model Boat Club, which sails its fleet twice a week on the freshwater lake in Herne Bay’s Memorial Park, continues to be a crucial ally for the life-savers in Whitstable.
Kellie Gray, Lifeboat Operations Manager, hailed the event’s success: “The model boat show is always a massive hit! The Heron Model Boat Club has provided invaluable support to the station and our essential work for years. We send a huge thank you for their tremendous efforts and unwavering continued support!”