On Saturday 28 January the crew will open the lifeboat station to those wanting to learn more about cold water swimming.
Whitby and the rest of the UK have seen a rise in the number of people enjoying swimming in the sea and other waterways. And it's no surprise with the wealth of health benefits as well as the social interactions it offers.
Ally Brisby who has been on the lifeboat crew for five years is an experienced open water swimmer, having completed the channel solo as well as an ice mile and other challenges. She said:
'As we found out towards the back end of last year when we rescued someone from the water, even the most experienced sea swimmers can get into difficulty. We are holding this event for anyone from complete beginners to more experienced swimmers to share our knowledge of the local swim conditions as well as important sea safety advice.'
The event will take place at Whitby Lifeboat Station at 1pm on Saturday 28 January. It is free of charge and attendants with have a chance to look around the lifeboat station before the presentation.
Speaking at the event will be Bod Marr who has been on the lifeboat crew for 25 years in June, and has surfed locally for 26 years. Bod will be talking through how to understand the tide forecasts, and how to look at the beach for clues as to how the sea will act that day.
Bod said:
'There is always more to learn about the sea, 26 years on and I am still learning every day. I am looking forward to being able to share a little bit of my knowledge to help people understand the tide times, spring and neap tides and rip currents.'
Also speaking will be RNLI Water Safety Officer Matt Sharpe who has been a volunteer on the crew for four years. Matt will talk about what to do should you find yourself in difficulty in the water.
He said:
'The RNLI's float to live message is saving lives, it is all about not panicking if you do get into trouble.'
Crew member Ally and Lifeboat Press Officer Ceri Oakes founded Whitby Wild Swimmers, a local sea swimming group around four years ago and hope that both members of the group and those thinking about starting swimming outdoors will come along. Ally will be on hand to advise about what equipment can help keep you safe, warm and more visible when sea swimming.
Ceri said:
'Anyone is welcome to come along to the session, there will be the opportunity to ask questions to the lifeboat crew and teas and coffees will be available.'
If you wish to attend please email ceri_oakes@rnli.org.uk.
If you do see someone in trouble in the water you can alert the RNLI by dialling 999 and asking for the coastguard.
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