RNLI launched over 800 times in South East in 2024

The RNLI is urging the public to take part in the charity's national fundraising event as it recorded 475 launches across Sussex, and 372 across Kent, in 2024 during one of its busiest years.

The charity said it was encouraging the public to take part in the campaign Mayday Mile, as "running a 24/7 life-saving service is expensive and costs are rising".

The Mayday Mile raises money through participants walking, jogging or running one mile a day throughout May.

Brighton lifeboat operations manager Charlie Dannreuther said: "Thousands of people get into danger on and around the water each year and need our help, but everything we do is only possible thanks to the generosity of our supporters."

The RNLI released its national rescue figures for 2024 on Wednesday, which revealed the charity's lifeboats were launched more than 9,100 times across the UK.

It added this was the fourth busiest year in the charity's 201-year history.

Mr Dannreuther added: "We're now heading towards our busiest time of year, so we're putting out our call for help to raise the funds which will help keep our lifesaving service going and allow us to be there when we're needed most."

At Brighton, the volunteer crew attended 61 shouts and saved two lives, said the RNLI.

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