26/08/2026
160 years ago, one devastating night changed the course of lifesaving in Torbay.
In January 1866, a huge storm swept through the bay, wrecking around 60 vessels and claiming more than 70 lives. With no lifeboat station in Torbay at the time, a lifeboat had to be hauled overland from Teignmouth to help. Later that year, Torbay’s first lifeboat station was established.
This weekend, the RNLI marked 160 years since those events with the RNLI Gig Pull, retracing that remarkable journey through the local area, and we were very proud to see them pass Offshore on their way through Torquay.
It was made even more special when Brett was presented with a certificate, signed by the RNLI’s national Chief Executive, recognising Offshore’s fundraising through the Offshore & Bays Festival.
We’ve been incredibly lucky to have the support of our customers, team, musicians, Bays Brewery and everyone who has got involved with the festival over the years. It’s thanks to all of you that we’ve been able to raise money for a charity that has been part of life here in Torbay for 160 years.
Thank you, RNLI Torbay, and to everyone who has served our bay over the past 160 years.
RNLI
RNLITorbay
