Two of Kilmore Quay RNLI’s dedicated fundraising volunteers were presented with RNLI Certificates of Thanks on Sunday (September 8th) in recognition of their longstanding service to the charity that saves lives at sea.
As an independent charity organisation, the RNLI relies on donations to fund its life saving work. Kilmore Quay lifeboat crew are on call day and night throughout the year. To sustain this service, well-maintained equipment, lifeboats, shore equipment and ongoing training are required. None of this would be possible without the enthusiasm, commitment, and drive of dedicated local fundraisers like Anne McMorris and Johnny Moore.
Dedicated local fundraiser Anne McMorris of Kilmore Quay RNLI
Anne was a diligent Station Treasurer at Kilmore Quay for over 34 years. She took on various roles at the station over the years including Chairperson of the Station Management team and Shop Manager, in addition to being a dedicated fundraiser involved in station fundraising events for over 50 years. Sadly, Anne passed away earlier this year after a long and courageous battle with illness. Accepting the award on her behalf today were her son and daughter, John and Felicity.
Johnny joined Kilmore Quay RNLI as shore crew in 1987 and currently holds the role of Launching Authority in addition to being a dedicated member of the fundraising team for the last 25 years. Together with Anne, Johnny managed the team of shop volunteers and organised numerous fundraising events on behalf of the RNLI.
Fundraisers, shop volunteers, crew members and family members gathered at the station on Sunday afternoon (08 September) to mark this special occasion. Speaking at the event Pauline McGann, RNLI Community Manager (Ireland East) said ‘Volunteers like Anne and Johnny are the lifeblood of the RNLI. They have done trojan work raising vital funds for the charity and I am delighted to be here today to recognize their hard work and commitment. We could not do what we do without the vital support of our incredible volunteers.’
Coxswain Eugene Kehoe (centre) presented Certificates of Service to Victor Gore (left) and PJ Bates
Victor Gore and PJ Bates were also presented with Certificates of Service by Coxswain Eugene Kehoe. Victor served as a crew member from 2013 to 2023. During his service, Kilmore Quay Lifeboat rescued 11 lives. PJ served as a crew member from 1997 to 2023, also qualifying as a Navigator. During his service, Kilmore Quay Lifeboat rescued 53 lives.
Speaking following the event, Coxswain Eugene Kehoe said, ‘We have a long tradition of life-boating here in Kilmore Quay thanks to our dedicated volunteers. We are very proud of all our volunteers, the fundraisers, shop volunteers, shore crew, and sea-going crew, as well as the way they do what they do to help save lives at sea.’
