Formby celebrates its world-first legacy with new blue plaque at historic lifeboat site

New Blue Plaque Honours Formby’s Place in World History…

A remarkable new blue plaque has been installed at as near to Formby Point as possible, proudly marking the site of what is recognised as the world’s first lifeboat station, a pioneering achievement that put Formby at the forefront of maritime rescue history.

The plaque, which stands alongside the distinctive upturned lifeboat shelter and seating area at Lifeboat Road and commemorates the establishment of the Formby Lifeboat House in 1776. Installed by the National Trust as part of the upcoming Formby 250 celebrations, it serves as a lasting reminder of the village’s extraordinary contribution to saving lives at sea.

Back in the 18th century, increasing numbers of ships were being lost on the treacherous sandbanks surrounding the approaches to the River Mersey. Recognising the need for a dedicated rescue service, Liverpool Dock Master and Water Bailiff Captain William Hutchinson successfully persuaded Liverpool Corporation to fund a lifeboat station at Formby, complete with a full-time coxswain.

That decision made history.

While the plaque commemorates the site of the original Lifeboat House, it could not be positioned at the exact location due to the effects of coastal weathering and corrosion. Instead, it has been placed nearby to ensure its protection and longevity for future generations.

The station became the first organised lifeboat station anywhere in the world, laying the foundations for the maritime rescue services we know today and helping to shape the future of lifeboat operations across the globe.

The new plaque proudly reads:

“Captain William Hutchinson (1715–1801), Dockmaster at Liverpool and the main force in creating Formby Lifeboat House in 1776 on the shore nearby. The first in the world.”

Set near to Formby’s beautiful coastline, the new display offers residents and visitors alike the chance to discover an often-overlooked chapter of local history and reflect on a world-first achievement that began right here on our shores.

The official unveiling will take place during the Formby 250 Celebrations on Sunday 28th June 2026, as the community comes together to celebrate 250 years since Formby earned its unique place in maritime history.

Formby isn’t just home to one of Britain’s most beautiful coastlines – it’s where lifeboat history began.