A LOWESTOFT couple have arranged a musical fundraising event for the town's lifeboat station, to say thank-you to the crew for coming to their aid at sea.

Carol Skinner and Dick Houghton had to be towed into the town's harbour in August when their boat, the Atazoa, got into difficulty three miles out to sea in strong winds.

As a thank-you to the crew of the Spirit of Lowestoft, the couple have organised a classic flute and piano recital evening at Christchurch tomorrow.

Mrs Skinner, 57 a professional flautist, will be performing with her pianist brother David Ventura, head of music at Hereford Sixth Form College.

The Spirit of Lowestoft was launched to tow the Atazoa back to harbour after her shaft coulping sheared off on August 8.

Mr Houghton hoped he could sail back to Lowestoft but, due to strong winds, doing so would have been too risky and the lifeboat was called out to the stricken boat's aid.

Within 50 minutes the liefboat had safely brought the Atazoa into harbour,and even took her to her mooring at Lowestoft Cruising Club.

Former teacher Mr Houghton, 67, was also surprised to recognise crewman Ben Arlow as he had taught him when he was a student at Benjamin Britten High School.

Describing the recscue, a grateful Mr Houghton said: 'It reminded me what a wonderful organisation the RNLI is.

'Supported by voluntary contributions and staffed by volunteers it is brilliantly equipped and crewed by splendid personnel.'

The classic flute and piano recital starts from 7pm at Christchurch in Whapload Road and also features student flautists who are being taught by Mrs Skinner.

There will also be refreshments and an exhibition of the work of the lifeboat station will be on display.

Admission is free and a retiring collection will be held in support of the RNLI.