Formby to Celebrate 250 Years of the World’s First Lifeboat Station

2 days ago
2 min read

Image created by Keith Jones 9th Dec 2016. The old photo blended into Keith's 2016 photo from the same position.

Formby is preparing to mark an extraordinary milestone in its history this summer – the 250th anniversary of the establishment of the world’s first lifeboat station, founded here in 1776.

The anniversary celebrations are being organised jointly by Formby Civic Society, Imagine Formby, and Formby Parish Council, and will take place over the weekend of Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th June 2026.

The commemorations will recognise Formby’s unique place in maritime history. In 1776, the first organised lifeboat station was established on the Formby coast to help rescue sailors whose vessels were frequently wrecked on the dangerous sandbanks near the approaches to the River Mersey. The station was created through the foresight of William Hutchinson, Dock Master and Water Bailiff of the Liverpool Docks, and it laid the foundations for organised lifesaving services that would later develop around the world.

The weekend celebrations will bring the community together to remember this remarkable achievement and to celebrate Formby’s proud maritime heritage.

Events will take place across the two days, with heritage activities and commemorations planned for Saturday 27th June, followed by the main public celebration on Sunday 28th June.

The highlight of the weekend will be a free community concert on the Sunday afternoon in Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Park on Lonsdale Road, right in the heart of Formby. The concert will be open to everyone and will feature live entertainment in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, giving residents the chance to come together and celebrate this unique chapter in the village’s history.

Organisers hope the event will not only honour the bravery and commitment of those involved in the early lifesaving efforts along the Formby coast but will also remind people of the important role the area played in the development of maritime rescue services.

With the support of local organisations and the wider community, the anniversary promises to be one of the most significant heritage celebrations held in Formby for many years.

Residents are encouraged to save the dates – Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th June 2026 – and join in marking 250 years of a world-first achievement that began right here in Formby.

Dave Irving

Formby Parish Council/Civic Society