MORE than 6,000 people attended the Mudeford Lifeboat Funday at the weekend, the annual fundraiser supporting Mudeford's RNLI lifeboat station.

The free event, which boasted a host of attractions - including the ever popular raft race - raises thousands of pounds for the maritime rescue charity.

Mudeford RNLI chairman Simon Wyatt-Budd told the Daily Echo: "We've got eight to ten rafts this year, we've got the lifeboat from Poole here for people to go and have a look on.

"One of the big things this year was obviously the Viper Aerobatics Team, who came over in their stunt planes.

"Usually on the day we raise between £15,000 to £18,000, and that goes straight to the lifeboat station."

Reinforcing the importance of the fundraising event, the lifeboat was actually called out to help a stricken boat by Hengistbury Head which had broken down. Nobody was injured.

However, Mr Wyatt-Budd said: "Ultimately that is what the money raised is going to pay for."

Attractions this year also included a lifeboat and helicopter display, by the Mudeford Lifeboat and HM Coastguard, stalls and side-shows, and a number of 'have-a-go' watersports demonstrations.

The plastic duck race, which saw ducks racing down the 'Mudeford Run' , was a particular favourite with younger attendees.

There was also a funfair, hog roast, selection of other refreshment stalls, children's train rides, a picnic area and live music.

Mr Wyatt-Budd confirmed more than 6,000 people attended the event at Mudeford Quay on Sunday.

An RNLI spokesman explained: "Last year's Mudeford Lifeboat Funday and Mudeford Lifeboat Ball raised a combined total of £25,779, which directly supports our own RNLI station at Mudeford.

"The fun day is both significant and unique, in that all the money raised at this event goes directly to maintaining this lifeboat service at Mudeford."