Microsoft is donating software worth £5M to the RNLI over the next 3 years.

RNLI Chief Executive Andrew Freemantle was winched in (pictured) to thank Microsoft Marketing Business Officer Matthew Bishop as a Microsoft team took part in a sea survival training teambuilding experience at the Lifeboat College.

Andrew says: ‘This generous donation will greatly assist the RNLI in maintaining its lifesaving services in the current difficult economic climate. It will help us to weather the storm that we, along with many other charities, are facing. Indeed, we are bracing ourselves to be fully hit by the storm next year, when the impact of reduced share and house prices on the value of legacy gifts – upon which we are so dependent – is expected to become apparent.

‘This exceptional donation from Microsoft gives us greater financial flexibility to continue supporting lifesaving initiatives such as the roll-out of MOB Guardian, which could help provide 1,500 fishing boats with a safety system over the next 3 years.

‘It gives me great pleasure to personally extend the thanks of the RNLI to Microsoft, which is not only giving a donation, but is more fully immersing itself in the work of our volunteers by putting its staff through crew training techniques. It is these techniques that help keep our crew safe should the worst happen at sea; it must be remembered that our crews frequently go and brave the eye of the storm to help save others.'

Matthew says: ‘The way the RNLI is using the latest technology to save lives is inspirational. It's not so long ago that volunteers were rowing out through the surf to try and locate those in danger by sight and good fortune. We're delighted to support the vital work of the RNLI as part of our software grant programme, and look forward to developing many new initiatives in the coming years.'