This year was the 50th annual fundraiser for the Mudeford RNLI lifeboat crew, with more people than ever before turning out to enjoy the faire and watch the spectacular Raft Race.
Entering crews throw on fetching fancy dress and set sail on an equally fashionable raft to raise money for Mudeford RNLI station. Among others, there were teams representing Highcliffe Charity Players, Priory Vet Group and of course, REIDsteel.
July 2013 marked the sixth time that REIDsteel have entered the infamous Mudeford Raft Race. Confidence was high leading up to the event having previously won three times in succession.
To recognise the outstanding achievement by Andy Murray at this year’s Wimbledon Tournament it was decided amongst the crew that Tennis would be the theme for this year’s raft, many thanks go to Paul at Solo Signs for donating his time and logo’s to help theme this year’s raft.
As REIDsteel is situated in a coastal town, many of its employees sail or enjoy a keen interest in boating. This involvement in the marine industry has enabled the REIDsteel crew to raise the most sponsorship of all teams participating in the event several years running.
Their mission to raise as much money as possible is close to home as REIDsteel’s marine assistants; Simon Barnett and Daniel Pitcher are both RNLI Crew members on-board Mudeford Atlantic 85 Lifeboat.
The team wouldn’t want to see their colleagues go to sea without the essential equipment needed to help save lives at sea.
Leigh Keynes, a fabricator and glazer says that the event is a brilliant way to bring all the staff at REIDsteel together. Whether sat in the boat or on the harbour it’s a great day out and a chance to share a mini sandwich or two.
As the sun shone, paddles were wielded, but the race became a hard one as the crew battled against strong winds and a path-blocking rogue raft. Good weather and high morale couldn’t help our team and they were pipped to the post by New Milton Round Table.
The REIDsteel crew will return next year, even more determined to reclaim their crown!
