He’s Raised Over £30k for Cornwall – But Why Does David Keep Giving?

Donation milestone for Penlee Lifeboat Station

Serial fundraiser David Rickard returned to Penlee Lifeboat Station on 9th May with another donation – bringing the total he’s raised for Cornish charities since 2007 to an impressive £30,080.

Of that, £13,000 has gone directly to RNLI Penlee, given in memory of his mother Mary, who lived in Cornwall.

A journey that started with a paper round

David, who lives in Honiton, began his fundraising mission as a tribute to his mother, who had lived in St Austell. For years, he delivered the free local newspaper Midweek Herald every Wednesday, donating the earnings to Cornish charities.

But after a fall in May 2022, David had to stop his paper round. Since then, he’s continued to make donations from his own pocket.

Focused support for lifeboats and air ambulance

Over the years, David’s support has extended to many Cornish causes, but his focus settled on the RNLI and Cornwall Air Ambulance – two services he greatly admires.

“Lifeboat crews are incredibly brave,” said David. “The risks they take to save lives during rescue operations are truly inspiring.”

At Penlee, David was met by Janet Madron, Penlee branch chairman; Eric Taylor, Penlee fundraising chairman; and coxswain Amy Smith, who presented him with a thank-you certificate.

£13,000 for Penlee – and counting

The RNLI, especially the team at Penlee, has been a key beneficiary of David’s efforts over the years. His donations have helped support the charity’s life-saving work around the Cornish coast.

The RNLI and the other Cornish charities he has supported have expressed their deep gratitude for David’s generosity and dedication.