Exmouth's RNLI200 launched its Yellow Welly Trail around the town on Wednesday (May 1).

Families of former coxswains, holding photos of their coxswain, gathered at the start of the trail, Welly 1. They were joined by Exmouth RNLI’s current volunteer coxswain and other volunteers.

A yellow ribbon was cut by Natalie O’Donnell, 4 x granddaughter of Edward Tupman, the first coxswain who served from 1859 -1880.

The launch party continued from Welly 1, the Tourist Information Centre 45A The Strand, Exmouth EX8 1AL, to Welly 4, Franklins, The Strand, EX8 1BR, where Keito Graham, the 13th Exmouth RNLI voluntary coxswain, (1984-1998) cut a Welly shaped cake made by Launchpad, a social enterprise training adults with learning challenges in catering and hospitality, based at Seachange in Budleigh Salterton.

Each welly along the free Welly Trail carries the name of one of the 15 coxswain at the station from 1859 to present day. 

Scan the QR code and its tells you about each one and Exmouth RNLI at the time he served. It has been made possible by sponsorship community.

Free Welly Trail maps are available from Exmouth Lifeboat Station and from the sponsors listed below. They include a quiz, and all who complete it will be awarded a certificate and momento at Exmouth RNLI shop at the Lifeboat Station.

The wellies have been designed and painted by local street artist Garf, with paint generously donated by Wilsons Paints. The Trail Map has been designed and printed by Total Tee.

Exmouth Mayor, Olly Davey said: "Exmouth has a proud history of supporting RNLI over the decades, as its volunteers have responded to damaged vessels and individuals at risk of drowning as they encounter difficulties at sea."

Exmouth RNLI volunteer Fundraising Chair, Des White said: "Exmouth RNLI is overwhelmed by the support we've received from all our sponsors.

"The yellow welly trail is a wonderful way for residents and visitors to find out more about the contribution of the volunteer coxswains and their colleagues, who put their own lives at risk,to rescue so many people in often very challenging conditions."

Exmouth RNLI’s 13th volunteer coxswain Keito Graham said: "From the early days of rowing boats, to the jet powered Lifeboat today, one thing the 15 Coxswains have in common is that we’ve all been proud to lead the crews of Exmouth RNLI.’

Exmouth RNLI volunteers, Carolyn Stupples and Ian Rick, who organised the Trail said: "This project started nearly a year ago, in anticipation of the RNLI's Bicentenary. However, neither of us realised how much work would be involved and we would probably still be working on it without the incredible support from Garf, Wilsons Paints and TotalTee.

"Now it is ready, we hope locals and visitors enjoy the walk around Exmouth, following the trail and learning something of the towns maritime past and its links to the RNLI. We look forward to meeting participants as they visit our Lifeboat Station."

The 15 Wellies have been sponsored by: Bar Buoy Cocktails, Exmouth Crazy Golf, Exmouth Indoor Market, EX81AR Deli & Store, Franklins, Jurassic Kitchens (hosted by Exmouth Rowing Club), Mariners, NCI Volunteer Watchkeepers (hosted by Harbour View Cafe), The Dolphin Hotel, The Beach, The Pilot, Sea Shore Ice Creamery, Seawood Chandlery and Clothing, Sideshore Community and World of Country Life (hosted by Tourist Information)