VISITORS to the Lowestoft Lifeboat Station enjoyed a rare treat with the opportunity to go on board the town's Tyne lifeboat.The annual lifeboat open day on Sunday was hailed a success as numerous events were held on the day.

VISITORS to the Lowestoft Lifeboat Station enjoyed a rare treat with the opportunity to go on board the town's Tyne lifeboat.

The annual lifeboat open day on Sunday was hailed a success as numerous events were held on the day.

Orange smoke distress flares fired by people in the water near the Claremont Pier were seen by the Lowestoft all-weather lifeboat and Southwold inshore lifeboat as they powered out of the harbour for a mock rescue.

The Lowestoft Model Boat Club erected a large pond and raised money for the RNLI by letting people use the radio controls to steer lifeboats that members had made. The fundraising team were busy with refreshments as well as being out collecting with the RNLI mascot Stormy Sam, helped by the Lowestoft Sea Cadets.

An exhibition of photographs showed rescues carried out by volunteer crews over the years, which has seen about 1,200 people rescued since 1801.

And the Salvation Army joined the RNLI crew and supporters at the quayside to conduct the annual Blessing of the Lifeboat.

The short service, led by Major Barry Willson, was accompanied by Salvation Army musicians, a reading by Mike Chapman and prayers by the Port Missioner, Supt Tim Jenkins of the Royal National Mission to Deep Sea Fishermen.

Lifeboat captain Richard Musgrove reported on recent activities, telling how the Spirit of Lowestoft lifeboat had been refitted in recent months. He said that the crew had responded to 31 calls for help during the past year, saving 54 people.