VOLUNTEERS from Burnham-on-Sea RNLI hosted an open day to show off their station and lifeboats to the public.

On Easter Sunday (April 21) visitors had the chance to take a closer look at the boats and hi-tech launch tractors used in rescues and enjoyed trying on some of the kit.

RNLI mascot Stormy Stan was at the event and spent the day walking around the seafront, had pictures taken with young visitors and handed out flags, badges and stickers.

After lunch, the lifeboat station Launch Authority gave permission for Burnham RNLI's D Class lifeboat, Burnham Reach, to be taken to the town jetty so people could see the boat and crews from the beach.

The D Class was returned to station where more visitors came along to look around and crews were kept very busy answering questions and offering safety advice regarding the tides and mud.

Burnham deputy launch authority Phil Counsel, said: "The crew were kept busy all day by the amazing amount of public interest shown in our open day which made it an enormous success.

“Our visitors were interested in seeing our boats and launch vehicles close at hand and crew were able to explain how it`s all used and answer everyones questions."

Members of the fundraising team gave out leaflets on the day and raised nearly £250 which will help the RNLI continue to save lives at sea.

Senior Helm Nick Edrich, said: “The public interaction was incredible and I felt we were talking to many budding young lifeboat crew of the future.

"We also raised extra funds for our vital life saving work.”