Arnold Clark Autoparts donates £500 to RNLI Troon

Date: Thursday 24 June 2021

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On Tuesday 1 June 2021, Evan Gallacher, a mechanic with the RNLI based at Troon lifeboat station, was called out to an emergency call out, and when he returned to the station, he discovered that his bike had been stolen.

Craig McCracken, Group Factor Manager at Arnold Clark Autoparts read about the story in the local Ayrshire press and knew the company could help Evan out. He arranged for a new bike to be delivered to him, fully kitted out with accessories and of course, a new bike lock.

Being a charity, the pandemic has hit the RNLI hard, with nobody able to visit the lifeboat stations and many of their fundraising events have been cancelled. As lifeboat callouts are expected to increase as the UK holidays at home, Arnold Clark Autoparts felt it right that they donate £500 to the RNLI lifeboat station in Troon to help cover the huge costs they face to stay afloat.

Craig McCracken said:

“The RNLI have saved thousands of lives over the years, providing an invaluable service often on a voluntary basis. Arnold Clark Autoparts have experienced strong bike sales in recent months, so we couldn't stand by and watch Evan lose out after being targeted while out potentially saving lives. After talking to Evan and his colleagues, it became clear the cost of running a lifeboat station is massive and we were only too happy to make a donation.”

Evan Gallacher, Troon RNLI mechanic said:

“It was very disappointing to return to the lifeboat station to find that my bike had been taken while I was at sea on the lifeboat. My thanks go to Craig McCracken from Arnold Clark Autoparts for providing me with a fantastic new bike to use for callouts and while at work around the harbour.

“On behalf of the RNLI in Troon, I would also like to thank Arnold Clark Autoparts for the donation of £500 to the RNLI. Following a difficult year for our fundraisers this donation is very much appreciated and will help us to continue to save lives at sea.”

To donate to the RNLI visit: https://rnli.org/

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