Artist’s Generous Painting Donation Sparks Bidding War at Newquay RNLI Auction

A Special Gift for Newquay RNLI Lifeboat Station

Volunteers at Newquay RNLI Lifeboat Station were recently delighted to receive an original painting featuring their inshore lifeboats: the D class Enid Mary (D-773) and the Atlantic 85 Uncle Johnny (B-963). This generous donation came from Malcolm East, a renowned artist and author known for capturing RNLI assets in his work. Malcolm, who lives in Yorkshire, has donated numerous paintings to support RNLI fundraising efforts.

A Fortuitous Facebook Find

The painting first caught the attention of Andrew Trebilcock, one of Newquay’s vigilant helms, on the Lifeboat Enthusiasts Facebook page. In a light-hearted comment, Andrew noted how well the painting would suit the station’s annual Harvest Festival. Malcolm quickly responded, offering to send the painting and some additional prints in time for the event.

A Successful Fundraiser

The Harvest Festival auction, held the following weekend, saw fierce bidding for the painting, ultimately raising over £200 for the station. The popularity of Malcolm’s work was evident, with attendees expressing interest in purchasing more prints.

A Visit from a Friend

Malcolm’s friend Steve Conway travelled from Yorkshire to Newquay to personally meet Andrew and share stories about Malcolm’s dedication to painting RNLI lifeboats. Steve officially handed over the painting on Malcolm’s behalf before making a stop at the station’s gift shop and heading back home.

For more of Malcolm’s artwork, visit M E G East Art on Facebook. The volunteers at Newquay RNLI Lifeboat Station expressed their heartfelt thanks to Malcolm for his support and generosity.

Photo: Newquay RNLI (Left to Right, Kev Goulding – Launch Authority, Andrew Trebilcock – Helm, Steve Conway and David Payne – Fundraising Team.