Lifeboat supporters are appealing for people to join their ranks to help them raise funds for the charity that saves lives at sea.

The chairman of the Littlehampton RNLI Fundraising Committee is calling on potential volunteers who can spare a few hours a month to help.

To give people an opportunity to find out more and meet the crew of Littlehampton RNLI lifeboat station, there will be a special recruitment day at the station in Fisherman's Quay, Littlehampton,on May 7, between 10am and 4pm.

The RNLI relies on its volunteer crews to man the lifeboats on lifesaving rescue missions. It also has volunteer fund-raisers, whose support makes it all possible.

Malcolm Somner, chairman of the Littlehampton RNLI Fundraising Committee, said: “We have seen several of our key fund-raisers and helpers either retiring or moving away from the area and we are now in urgent need of keen, reliable and enthusiastic people of all ages to help build our numbers up again.

“If we are to achieve our goals we ideally need around 20 individuals who could offer just a couple or more hours a month.

“We have vacancies both on our committee and within our supporters and collectors groups, so regardless of the amount of time you have to spare, we would welcome your assistance.”