Weymouth Lifeboat Week has been hailed a ‘roaring success’ as crowds flocked to support the annual charity event.

The jam-packed week of fundraising events is an annual fixture aimed at raising money for Weymouth's RNLI branch. It kicked off with a blessing of the lifeboats on Sunday evening, followed by a thrilling display on Monday which saw lifesaving scenarios acted out at Newtons Cove by lifeguards and coastguards.

The display was followed by an evening of family fun with a barbecue and stalls.

Weymouth RNLI spokesman Ken Francis said: “The Nothe Gardens fun evening was once again a roaring success despite the lack of helicopter for the display." 

A fishing competition held at Stone Pier on Monday evening saw 30 children compete in under 12s and up to 16 categories.

Archie Gough won the under 12s category with Zack Russell in second place and Henry Bradshaw in third. Winner of the up to 16s category was Aaliyah Frapple, with second place awarded to Ben Tracey and third place to Bradley Mapstone. 

Every child that entered was given a prize donated by Weymouth Angling Club, who ran the competition. 

Tuesday was equally as popular with adults and children alike taking part in a sandcastle competition on Weymouth beach and a crabbing competition along the quayside near the lifeboat station. 

The day concluded with an exciting stand up paddleboard event – the first ever to feature in Weymouth Lifeboat Week. 

Weymouth lifeboat coxswain Andy Sargent said: “The night was a fantastic success, raising well over £600 for Weymouth Lifeboat, just from entries alone. This was all thanks to the lifeboat week events team for the planning, along with Weymouth Water sports and fitness club, for the loan of equipment, and of course Billy Winters who also raised money from proceeds of their food sales.”

A relay race started the competition, where the lifeboat team made it to the second round before being knocked out. However they celebrated success when they won the jumbo SUP event which saw all eight of them on one paddleboard. 

Andy said: “Thanks to all who took part and made it a fantastic success, and we look forward to next year where it is sure to be even bigger and better.” 

The week continues tonight with a further display by lifeguards and coastguards at Bowleaze Cove at 6.30pm. 

There will be music events with a folk music gig at Pilgrim House at 7pm tomorrow evening, and a performance from the Dorset Wrecks at Weymouth Angling Club at 7.30pm on Friday. 

The week concludes with an open day at the lifeboat station on Saturday from 10.30am to 4pm, where the public can take a tour of the lifeboats.