A sea hero is to step down as chairman of a lifeboat group after nearly 30 years of saving lives.

Graham Collins founded the Burling Gap Safety Boat Association in 1983.

Mr Collins, the owner of the Burling Gap Hotel, was so affected by an experience saving a drowning swimmer he called a meeting with his neighbours to set up a system of patrolling the surrounding coastline.

They decided to set up patrols around Cuckmere Haven and Beachy Head, where tides fluctuate, currents are strong and swimmers on lilos often find themselves drifting far from shore.

Now the group of volunteers go out in a boat every weekend and bank holiday to make sure everyone is safe. They work closely with the RNLI and save between ten and 20 lives a year.

Mr Collins steps down from his post as chairman today Weds because of work commitments but the group will carry on.

It is currently fundraising for a new, up-to-date boat to comply with government regulations.

Nearly £2,000 has already been raised through barbecues, bingo and quiz nights and fish and chip suppers but there is still quite a way to go.

The next event will be a pool night at the Burling Gap Hotel on April 24 from 7.30pm.

Call 07884 101505 for more information.