RNLI volunteers were forced to abandon their fish and chip supper for an emergency launch after a report of a person in the water.

Supporters of the RNLI in Littlehampton were able to buy a meal at a fish supper event at the lifeboat station, while the charity’s volunteer crews described the lifeboats, their roles and how the RNLI save lives at sea.

However, as the crews tucked into their food, the team was called into action after receiving a request to launch to help someone in the water.

The Argus: Jason, left, and Adam from the lifeboat crew enjoying their fish and chips before having to abandon their meal: credit - RNLI/Beth BrooksJason, left, and Adam from the lifeboat crew enjoying their fish and chips before having to abandon their meal: credit - RNLI/Beth Brooks (Image: RNLI/Beth Brooks)

Crowds clapped and cheered as the volunteers left the crew room and raced to the lifeboat.

As they headed swiftly out of the harbour, the team encountered a strong sea swell with windy conditions.

While they were en route they received word they were no longer needed and were stood down.

The Argus: RNLI supporters cheered on as crews launched the lifeboat from the slipway: credit - RNLI/Beth BrooksRNLI supporters cheered on as crews launched the lifeboat from the slipway: credit - RNLI/Beth Brooks (Image: RNLI/Beth Brooks)

Nick White, lifeboat operations manager at Littlehampton Lifeboat Station and deputy launch authority for the launch on Friday evening, said: “We were delighted to welcome so many members of the public to our station allowing us to showcase the work our charity’s volunteers do.

“Our crews are available 24/7 and that evening’s shout gave onlookers a perfect example of how we perform an emergency launch.

“The Littlehampton RNLI fundraising branch is an integral part of the station, as without the financial support they bring to the organisation through the shop and events, such as the fish supper evening, the RNLI simply would not exist.

“The dedicated time and energy of our volunteers and the generosity of members of the public helps us to save lives at sea - we thank everyone for their support.”

The RNLI operate 238 lifeboat stations across the UK and Ireland, as well as more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the country.

Since the charity was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved more than 142,700 lives.