The lifesaving RNLI were at the centre of celebrations on the Isle of Wight yesterday (Saturday).

The organisation was marking its 200th anniversary, and a 999 emergency services day and a MayDay mile relay went ahead.

Enthusiastically responding to the invitation were RNLI and independent lifeboats from across the Isle of Wight and Hampshire, plus a whole range of other rescue organisations, with some setting up stalls explaining their roles in emergencies. 

At Cowes RNLI, the lifeboat station itself was open to the public, where the station's visits team found fun ways of teaching young children about water safety. 

Isle of Wight County Press: Launching the Sheena Louise.Launching the Sheena Louise. (Image: Pamela Parker)

Lifeboat crew member Josh Matthews, who helped organise the day, thanked the Isle of Wight Council and Cowes Town Council for their support.

Voluntary services displayed vehicles and equipment, including St John Ambulance, which delivered first aid training sessions.

On Cowes Parade, rescue skills and running were put to the test and in Cowes Harbour, crews were in action.

Pictures by Pamela Parker.

Isle of Wight County Press: Crew from the Cowes RNLI, back, from left: Ady Stothard, Katie Lewis, Willoughby Matthews, Jules Lennon and Mark Scholes; front, from left: Luca Stopps, Joshua Matthews, Libby Finch, Ned Cook and Olivia Manser.Crew from the Cowes RNLI, back, from left: Ady Stothard, Katie Lewis, Willoughby Matthews, Jules Lennon and Mark Scholes; front, from left: Luca Stopps, Joshua Matthews, Libby Finch, Ned Cook and Olivia Manser. (Image: Pamela Parker)