By Isle of Wight Observer
The Cowes RNLI Guild Committee has once again enjoyed a busy and successful year of fundraising, with a wide range of social events bringing the community together in support of the lifeboat service.
The year began in January with Pixie’s Do, a canapés and wine evening hosted by Guild President Maggie Ankers at Villa Rothsay, Cowes. February followed with a popular Coffee Morning and Bring & Buy Sale at the Royal Yacht Squadron, featuring a tempting array of homemade cakes.
In March, members marked the end of the RNLI’s 200th anniversary celebrations with a hearty Soup and Savoury Lunch at Gurnard Sailing Club. April brought a Fish & Chip Lunch at Murray’s Seafood Restaurant, held on St George’s Day, while in May, Mr & Mrs Pengelley of Gurnard Heights kindly hosted a delightful Cheese & Wine Party.
June saw the always-popular Salmon & Strawberry Lunch at the Commodore’s House, blessed with glorious sunshine. In July, the Guild held a sparkling Afternoon Cream Tea with Prosecco at Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club, with live music from The Watch.
The summer calendar now looks forward to the Guild’s Annual Summer Party on the August Bank Holiday, hosted by the Royal Yacht Squadron, with music, dancing, and raffle prizes generously donated by local businesses.
Monthly coffee mornings continue, each with guest speakers sharing skills, crafts or stories. The September Coffee Morning will be at the Island Sailing Club, with guest speaker Victoria Preston from the Classic Boat Museum.
All proceeds support the RNLI and its dedicated volunteer crews.