Lifeboat crews based at Whitstable rescued 66 people last year.

They responded to 62 calls, fewer than in 2007, but operation manager Mike Judge said the number was still high.

“The range of incidents we have dealt with has been varied, from people in the water, capsized sailing dinghies and broken down vessels,” he said.

“Many of the calls have been as a direct result of members of the public calling the coastguard on the 999 system and relaying good information enabling an effective response.

“Without their vigilance and quick thinking the outcome could well have been so very different.”

Whitstable lifeboat is continuing with its appeal for volunteers, male or female, interested in training to become crew members.

People need to be available on weekdays between 9am and 5pm and be able to get to the boathouse in around five minutes. Previous maritime experience is not essential.

See our video on the lifeboat's appeal>>>

For more information contact Mike Judge on 01227 275911, drop into the lifeboat station any Sunday morning, or visit the website www.whitstablelifeboat.org.uk