Acclaimed musician Phil Coulter on the writing of an RNLI anthem

When his brother tragically drowned while windsurfing in Lough Swilly, Ireland, in 1984, musician Phil Coulter was determined to make a change. He was instrumental in the setting up of Lough Swilly Lifeboat Station. And through raising funds and spreading awareness of the devastating drowning tragedies that had happened at the lough – tragedies that also included his sister – the station opened 3 years later.

In 1989, Phil wrote his song ‘Home from the Sea’ – which has become a much-loved RNLI anthem. In this episode, Phil shares his inspiration for it, along with his thoughts about RNLI crews both past and present.

200 Voices is produced by Adventurous Audio for the RNLI

Interview by Adventurous Audio

Soundtrack composed and performed by Jon Nicholls

The RNLI is a charity celebrating 200 years of saving lives at sea - find out more at RNLI.org/200