Cash boost for bid to restore Fleetwood historic vessel

The 41ft vessel, Ann Letitia Russell, which helped save more than 150 lives with Fleetwood RNLI from 1939 to 1976, was returned to the town last summer from a Lowestoft marina for restoration.

Now the Ann Letitia Russell Rescue Group has applied to members of the county council for just over £700, to be used to buy paint to help renovate the lifeboat.

County councillors for Fleetwood West and East, Lorraine Beavers and Ron Shewan, have been asked for half of the cash each, with County Coun Beavers so far agreeing to give £358.78.

An application from the group said: “The Ann Letitia Russell served as the town lifeboat from 1939 to 1976.

“She was instrumental in saving more than 150 lives.

“Many local people come from fishing backgrounds and have memories of the service she provided for the local community.

“The local response to her return to Fleetwood was amazing. The aim of the charity is to return her to her original condition and put her on display in Fleetwood.”

The cash grant will be used to buy paint.