Artistic Tribute to RNLI Penlee’s Bravery Finds a Permanent Home at Penlee House

Photo: Nick Langdon prents drawing to Penlee House Museum and Gallery. L-r Mayor of Penzance Stephen Reynolds, Katie Herbert curator/deputy director Penlee House, Nick Langdon, Tony Rendle mechanic at Penlee Lifeboat Station and Anna Renton director Penlee House. – Photo Credit: Phil Monckton

 A striking colour pencil drawing by Devon artist Nick Langdon, honouring the heroic actions of RNLI Penlee Coxswain Patch Harvey and his crew, has been donated to Penlee House Museum and Gallery. The artwork captures Patch, who led his crew in the daring rescue of a yacht off Porthleven in hurricane conditions.

Honouring Lifesaving Bravery

The rescue, which took place in extreme weather, earned Patch a Silver Medal for Gallantry and a Thanks of the Institution inscribed on Vellum from the RNLI. The accolade recognised his exceptional courage, leadership, and boat-handling skills. The RNLI volunteer crew involved also received Silver Medal for Gallantry Certificates, while the HM Coastguard helicopter team from Newquay were presented with Silver Medal Service Certificates for their pivotal role in the operation.

This act of bravery inspired Nick to create the drawing, titled Tribute, which is now available for purchase as prints via the RNLI online store.

A Lasting Homage

Nick chose this year, the RNLI’s bicentenary, to donate the original piece to Penlee House Museum and Gallery. Speaking about the donation, Nick said: “It can be displayed as a lasting and fitting homage to what Patch and his crew accomplished and I decided that Penlee house would be a well-chosen home for it.”

This heartfelt donation ensures the story of RNLI Penlee’s extraordinary bravery is preserved and celebrated within the community they serve.

For those wishing to support the RNLI, copies of Tribute are now available through the RNLI online store.

Photo Credit: Phil Monckton