Grand Opening Day, National Coastwatch, Fleetwood
9th June, 2013.
It was a memorable occasion at Fleetwood on June 9th, when National Coastwatch officially opened their section of the new Fleetwood Observatory Tower. Everything turned out perfect. The weather was hot and sunny, allowing guests and visitors to stroll along the promenade to the tower. The Old Boys Band turned out in force and their repertoire entertained the guests as they arrived.
The guests of honour were The Goal-den Girls, who donated a massive £7,500 to National Coastwatch Fleetwood. This magnificent group of ladies helped and supported each other to run the Edinburgh Marathon in 2012 and raise 30,000 uk pounds along the way. They unveiled the opening plaque after Steve Martin gave a short speech, thanking the many people who had helped get National Coastwatch to this position.
Amongst the invited guests, we were very pleased to see our Search and Rescue colleagues, Paul Ashworth from RNLI Fleetwood and Paul Whelan and his team, from HM Coastguard, Fleetwood, in full uniform.
A buffet was provided by Square and Compass Catering and our thanks go to Lee, Janine and their team. Pablos in Fleetwood, donated 100 portions of their aptly named Coastwatch Cake, which was named by one of their customers, following a competition run by the cafe. Many thanks to Peter and Linda for their support……… and cake !!
Ian Whalley, a Trustee of National Coastwatch, represented the national body of the charity. He provided words of encouragement and support, as well as providing the commemorative plaque which we gratefully accepted.
Wyre Council, who built the tower with funds from the EU, were represented by Wyre Rangers Alison Boden and Mike Tattersall. Fleetwood Council also had representatives present.
As well as the invited guests, we send our thanks to the many visitors who attended, watched and joined in our celebration.
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