Teignmouth Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has revealed that its historic lifeboat station was another casualty of Storm Ingrid after high winds, heavy rain and rough seas lashed the town over the weekend.

While the tractor, lifeboat and operational lifesaving equipment are all safe, the lifeboat station’s crew rest area and operational back office sustained damage from the storm.

‘This is usually where our chart tables are located and computer equipment, plus seating for crew. The flooring suffered water damage and some furniture and electrical equipment too,’ a spokesperson from Teignmouth RNLI said. ‘Thankfully, the damage is mainly cosmetic rather than structural,’ the spokesperson added.

The station is continuing to operate, but on a restricted service while repairs are carried out.

‘Inspections and repair work are ongoing, we are hoping to be back fully operational as soon as possible and are looking at the options available to make this happen as quickly as we can,’ the RNLI spokesperson explained.

Lifeboat Operations Manager Andy has extended his thanks to our volunteer crew, who worked quickly to help minimise the damage and have been on hand to save as much equipment as possible, including valuable historical memorabilia.

Teignmouth RNLI paid tribute to its neighbouring stations, the RNLI lifeguards and contractors for their continued support and assistance.

With stormy conditions still forecast, Teignmouth RNLI is urging everyone to take extra care and to follow safety advice to stay unharmed when visiting the coast.

Teignmouth’s current lifeboathouse dates back to 1862. It was originally built with its doors facing the Ness. However, it was pulled down and rebuilt the following year so that its doors would face the harbour to make it easier and quicker to launch the lifeboat.