BCAD staff taking a sponsored walk for RNLI

Throughout his life Giles was a great supporter of the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution). For almost 20 years he voluntarily provided the RNLI with artwork for some of their annual Christmas cards which were sold to raise funds for the organisation. In 1980 for example the RNLI sold 590,000 copies and raised £50,000. He also bought the cards to sell and raise more money.

Giles was frequently asked for originals of his cartoons and although he never sold them, he was willing to give them away, especially if they were going to be auctioned to raise funds for the RNLI. His cartoons for the Daily Express and Sunday Express were often on a nautical theme as he was a keen sailor. He also drew illustrations for local yacht club menus and programmes. When replying to letters asking for originals he often mentioned that because of his hobby it was always wise to help raise funds for the RNLI, especially his local branches at Harwich and Felixstowe.

In 1974 he was presented with a special award from the RNLI to thank him for the valuable public relations work he had provided.

Team members from the BCAD project aim to keep this link going and are risking life and limb to take part in a 10 mile sponsored walk in aid of the RNLI on 11th May between Whitstable and Herne Bay.   Express Newspapers has very kindly supported the team’s efforts by allowing them to be kitted out in t-shirts featuring Giles characters.  To sponsor us please click onto the logo below.