Whitby’s Lifeboat Station was one of the busiest on the Yorkshire coastline, according to new figures released by the RNLI.
Last year, Whitby RNLI launched its all weather lifeboat or inshore vessel, 42 times. They helped 34 people and saved one person’s life.
In addition to saving people, the RNLI launches were to save animals and prevent animal owners from putting themselves at risk.
The 2025 data shows the region’s RNLI lifeboat crews launched a total of 422 times along the Yorkshire and Lincolnshire coast, which stretches from Redcar to Skegness.
Between the 12 lifeboat stations, they saved 13 lives and aided a further 272 people.
Scarborough was also named as one of the region’s busiest stations, launching 59 times and helping 32 people.
RNLI Whitby’s coxswain and senior station technician, Richard Dowson said: “We are delighted to have played our part in helping 34 people and almost certainly having saved one life during last year’s shouts.
“Sometimes you don’t know what you are going to be faced with when you arrive on scene and each shout is different in its own way. To have had positive outcomes is testament to the skill and dedication of our crews who are all volunteers and have other jobs and commitments as well.”
Head of RNLI North and East region, Rebecca Felton, added: “Every year the RNLI performs a vital role in keeping the coast safe – and last year was no different. We are proud to have been able to help this many people and save lives.
“But, none of this would exist without the incredible support we receive from the public. The RNLI is primarily a voluntary organisation and it is only with the generous donations from the public we are able to keep this work going.”
Next month, the RNLI is putting out its own Mayday call, and is urging people to get behind its biggest national fundraising event, the Mayday Mile, to help fund the charity.
Participants are challenged to cover a mile a day for the month of May whether it be walking, running, swimming or cycling, for example.
Money raised will go towards funding the RNLI lifeboats and lifeguards over its busy summer season which is fast approaching.
