RNLI Release
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A lifeboat crew is swopping its all-weather boat for a more hazardous form of sea transport.
The crew at the RNLI lifeboat station in Dover will be having fun in a Dragon boat based on traditional Chinese craft when they take part in the Dover Regatta.
The Regatta traditionally includes this unusual boat race with most competitors entering into the spirit and dressing in costumes.
The RNLI hopes up to £12,000 will be raised through the boat race and the charity is now appealing for people to make up teams.
RNLI Senior Fundraising Manager Jenny Green said: `Each team battles it out against the others, through a series of heart-racing heats to claim the prestigious winner's trophy. There's also the sound of drummers on board beating time and propelling their teams to victory.
`This event is kindly sponsored by Dover Harbour Board which means that all money raised will go directly to the RNLI to enable our volunteer crews to continue saving lives at sea. The event itself is run by a specialist company, Gable Events.
`It is our aim this year to raise enough money to put 12 volunteer crew members from our Dover station through their annual training. Unlike years ago only one in 10 crew members join the RNLI from a professional maritime occupation. Without training, our volunteers can not become lifesavers.'
The event is on 14 August. It costs £150 per team to enter and each team needs to raise a minimum of £250 in sponsorship for the RNLI. Teams consist of between 12 and 20 people.
Anyone who wants to take part is asked to call the RNLI regional fundraising office on 01825 761466.
