POOLE Lifeboat station is celebrating 150 years of saving lives at sea by launching an anniversary-themed fundraiser.

The crew of the RNLI coastal station is inviting 150 organisations, companies, schools, and youth groups to pledge to raise 150 in the form of pennies or pounds in their 150th anniversary year.

The 150 for 150 challenge will help raise funds to ensure the life-saving work of the RNLI can continue.

The theme of 150 will also influence the choice of fundraising activities volunteers take part in. Suggestions include baking 150 cakes, hopping 150 yards, swimming 150 metres, singing 150 songs, or going to school or work in wellies and donating 150 pennies.

Volunteer Coxswain Jonathan Clark said: “For 150 years, the dedication and spirit among the volunteers at Poole Lifeboat station has remained constant, through good times and band.

“The main reason for this team spirit is the support that we receive, from our families, our employers, the public and the wider community which we serve.

“The station has been very much at the heart of the community and we are always proud to take part in the events on the quay and around the area.”

Volunteers at the station on Poole Quay delivered letters to local businesses around the area to get on board and give their support.

Jonathan added: “As volunteers, we are the privileged ones, as we can make a difference, we can save lives and bring a loved one back home.

“As a team we also try to share our experiences, things like asking people to respect the water, swim between the flags on the beach, or always wear a lifejacket; small things that make a huge difference, as sometimes the difference is literally life or death.

“So for our 150 for 150 challenge we are asking people to support us in a small way that collectively will make a huge difference, raising vital funds to support our charity. This will enable your lifeboat station to continue to save lives at sea for another 150 years or more, and we thank you for this.”

For more information on how to make a donation, call 01202 665607 or send a message via the Poole RNLI Facebook page.