30 years of service for Anstruther lifeboat celebrated

An event will be held this morning to celebrate 30 years of service for Anstruther Harbour's Mersey-class lifeboat.

Since 1991, the RNLB Kingdom of Fife has launched to those in need 492 times, rescuing 552 people and has saved 39 lives.

Describing the day the lifeboat arrived in Anstruther 30 years ago, then Coxswain Peter Murray MBE said: “I joined the RNLI in 1961 and was here for the duration of the Oakley’s time in Anstruther.

"Being Coxswain of the Mersey class lifeboat that day was incredible. It is probably the best thing I’ve ever done in my lifetime. I felt 10-foot tall bringing her into Anstruther.”

Michael Bruce joined the RNLI in the same year the boat arrived and he now serves as its Coxswain.

He said: “Looking back to 1991, I never in my wildest dreams thought that I’d have the honour to lead this team of volunteers aboard the Mersey here in Anstruther.

"Sailing under the command of Peter Murray was instrumental for me and my development. I’m extremely proud to be coxswain of this lifeboat 30 years on and continue to save lives at sea.”