Longhope lifeboat visit

Last weekend the Ladies Guild of the RNLI Longhope Lifeboat arrived on the island for what has now become an annual visit.

Of course they brought, Hector the Scottie dog, their mascot, along with them....

There was a high tide so it took them a while to moor up at the pier.  Hector was guiding operations from the bow....

This year the crew had an extra member, Stormy Stan!

He was delighted to visit Graemsay

And Graemsay folk were delighted to meet him

Though some were a little shy, even in the arms of Grandad

Hector was keen to come ashore too....

Then it was up to the hall where the lifeboat ladies set up stalls selling second hand books, items from their shop including Christmas cards and other gifts and of course a tombola stall and a raffle.

All the folk of Graemsay came along...

Stormy Stan came along to help too

There was a chance to have a seat and a cuppa, and the Graemsay folk had provided sandwiches, cakes and biscuits for everyone.  Heroes need plenty of tea....

And wee dogs need a snack too!

The famous boots....

Stormy Stan helped out with the Raffle too, aided by Angus.

Soon it was time to head off back to the pier.....

The crew check with Hector that it's OK to go...

And we waved bye to the heroes and their helpers for another year!

We later heard that we had raised £324 at the sale.  A fantastic amount for such a small community! But those of us that live by the sea are forever grateful to the men and women who are prepared to brave all weathers to save lives.  And they are all VOLUNTEERS!