***UPDATE***
I’ve spoken to the RNLI who are really grateful that I’ve started an appeal for a new Skegness lifeboat. They have asked me to hold off just for a moment as they look into the incident and find out whether an appeal is needed. Sometimes lifeboat stations already have people who are waiting to donate towards a lifeboat, or may have left a legacy to fund a particular boat. The RNLI says it’s lucky to have really generous supporters and it doesn’t want to ask people for money for a boat that might already have some funding – and nor would I. So I’d like to thank you very much for your kind donations. The RNLI have said they’ll refund any donations if people prefer, otherwise I will donate to any future appeal for a Skegness lifeboat or to the station itself if an appeal isn’t necessary.

So this page will close shortly, with donations received so far being passed on to the RNLI. Thank you for your donations - even in a few short hours, the generosity of people has been overwhelming and it's good to know that the RNLI will continue to ensure the Skegness crew are able to continue their incredible work saving lives at sea.