
Alison Hume, Scarborough and Whitby MP, has underlined the importance of a new joint-initiative which aims to increase safety awareness and raise funds for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).
Ms Hume joined members of the rescue service and representatives of TransPennine Express (TPE), which forms the other half of the partnership, at a launch event in her constituency on Friday.
She spoke with local crew members, two of whom work for TPE, at Scarborough Railway Station on Friday.
To mark the start of the project, a lifeboat was towed onto one of its platforms in a bid to raise awareness among passengers using the train operator’s services.
Ms Hume said:
“I was delighted to be at the launch of this partnership between TransPennine Express and the RNLI.
“There’s a strong link between safety at sea and safety on the railway here, because so many people use the train to come to the town and then head to the beach.
“Safety at sea is something which is taken extremely seriously in this part of the world.
“We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to the people who volunteer their time with the RNLI in Scarborough and Whitby and along the east coast.
“That’s why I feel this initiative is so important.”
Throughout the partnership, TPE and the RNLI will deliver a series of educational campaigns, station-based events and interactive activities to spread vital safety messages.
A booklet, promoting rail and water safety, will also be published.
Rail passengers will also be given the opportunity to support the RNLI directly, with the option for them to donate funds via the Delay Repay scheme.
Paul Staples, TPE’s Engineering, Safety and Sustainability Director, said:
“For many of our customers, a trip to the coast is about making memories with family and friends – and we want those memories to be safe ones.
“We’re proud to partner with the RNLI, an organisation that shares our commitment to safety and community.
“Together we’ll raise funds and awareness to support their lifesaving work and make a positive difference to the people and places we connect every day.”
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