Brighton sisters follow in their dad's footsteps to volunteer for RNLI

Emily Summerfield and Sarah Huntley, from Ovingdean, used to hear the sound of their dad’s lifeboat pager going off throughout their childhood.

Their father Paul Huntley volunteered at Eastbourne’s RNLI for 20 years.

Emily joined the Brighton RNLI branch as a volunteer crew member four years ago and her sister Sarah followed in her footsteps this year.

Sarah said: “It was always a question of when not if we would join. The RNLI was a part of our lives growing up and we were used to the sound of Dad’s pager going.

“I have been so proud this year to have taken on the training to become part of the crew at Brighton. Even during the Christmas break crews like ours around the country will be launching to people in danger no matter the day or time.”

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Emily added: “There’s no feeling quite like bringing someone home safe to their families – especially at Christmas. But as volunteer lifeboat crew we couldn’t launch without kind donations from the public which fund the kit, training and equipment we need to save others and get home safely to our own families.”

It comes as Brighton RNLI branch has launched its appeal for support over the Christmas period.

The RNLI is highlighting its brave crew who have volunteered their time and commitment at all hours, every day of the year, to ensure the charity’s lifesaving service has continued for nearly 200 years.

A spokeswoman for the charity said: “On average, RNLI lifeboats launch over 100 times during the Christmas period every year. Whatever weather winter throws at them, RNLI crews are ready to battle the elements to save lives at sea. These rescues, and others all year round, are only made possible by the RNLI’s generous supporters, helping to fund the essential kit, training and equipment needed by lifeboat crews.

“Christmas is a time for family and, for many, a time for sharing stories of times and generations past. For Emily and Sarah at Brighton lifeboat station, these stories often involve saving lives at sea.”