A STATUE of a historic RNLI lifeboat crew member is set to be unveiled at a North-East coastal town at the weekend.

The new 8ft tall statue, created by South Hetton sculptor Ray Lonsdale, will officially take its place at Seaham Harbour Marina at 1pm on Sunday.

The statue by the same artist behind the town’s famous Tommy, was commissioned and fundraised for by the East Durham Heritage and Lifeboat Centre, at Seaham Harbour Marina in remembrance of the many RNLI volunteers who served in the area between 1870-1979.

Sculpted from Corten steel, the Coxswain (the crew member in charge of the vessel) will develop the same rust-like finish as the ‘Tommy’ statue.

The unveiling is to be carried out by Jon Knight, RNLI Head of Lifesaving in the presence of the few surviving members of RNLI Seaham and the families of former members, together with representatives of funders of the project and supporters of the group.

A spokesperson for the Heritage Group, said: “We are really pleased to welcome RNLI Head of Lifesaving, Jon Knight to unveil the statue.

“The statue is a fitting tribute to those who manned the station over the 109 years it served the Durham coast and to those who lost their lives saving those in peril.”

Funding for the project has been provided from three sources, the Durham County Councillors representing Seaham via the Area Action Partnership, the County Durham Community Foundation and from East Durham Heritage Group reserves.

The group has worked with the artist to ensure the statue of the coxswain is historically accurate, including his 1950’s oilskin coat, sou’wester and life jacket.

Tony Forster, Director of Seaham Harbour Marina, said: “We’re all so excited about the unveiling of the statue; it’s been such a great achievement of the Heritage Centre.

“Seaham Harbour Marina has so much to offer visitors, from its stunning coastal views, to the brilliant businesses and cafes, plus it’s an ideal point from which you can explore local heritage.

“The artwork is fantastic. We’re sure the new statue will be incredibly popular with everyone and will bring many new visitors to the marina to experience all it has to offer.”

The Northern Echo: STATUE: New statue of historic RNLI lifeboat crew member by Ray Lonsdale to be unveiled in Seaham

New statue of historic RNLI lifeboat crew member by Ray Lonsdale to be unveiled in Seaham

Ray Lonsdale, said: “I was delighted to be asked to create a statue dedicated to the RNLI by the heritage group. They proved to be a determined bunch who managed to commission the project relatively quickly and were a pleasure to work with.

“The sculpture itself was interesting to make with its period clothing and movement in the pose. It came together well and I am really pleased with the end result. Hopefully the public will take to it and enjoy it.”