It was with great excitement that members of Romney Marsh Morris were actually able to visit RNLI Littlestone station, in person, last weekend, to present the crew with a donation.
Each year the local Morris side chooses a charity to support, and for 2021 they had chosen RNLI Littlestone for the second year running.
Due to the pandemic, they had not been able to fundraise in their normal way during 2020, with limited outside opportunities for dancing around the region. However, they pulled out all the stops, bells and, whistles for 2021 and raised a whopping £2,100.81 through collections at dancing and singing events, a barn dance, 5p collection, pledges, raffles, and other social events.
In presenting the cheque to the crew, David Comley, squire of Romney Marsh Morris, said: “We are delighted to have supported the excellent work of Littlestone RNLI, and to present them with what for us, is a record annual amount. As a team that is fully community minded, we have always supported local businesses and organisations. And are always looking out for others to join us and become involved in a fabulous tradition.”
The Morris dancing team were able to view first-hand the new Atlantic 85 lifeboat, the Jean McIvor. Although the exact use of the money raised has yet to be decided, it will provide further needed equipment and resources to the newly refurbished station.
Matt Crittenden, the station manager, upon receiving the cheque, commented that the last year has been a very tricky one for the local RNLI stations, with many strong views being expressed about the work of the volunteer crews. He went on to thank the Romney Marsh Morris for all their hard work and support, and said that they are very appreciative of the amazing amount of money raised.
Romney Marsh Morris’ charity for 2022 will be the Romney Marsh Community Hub.
For further information on Romney Marsh Morris, go to their website, Facebook page or email them at romneymarshmorris2016@gmail.com.
Image Credits: Judith Ruffhead .