Crowds were treated to a thrilling spectacle as lifeboat and coastguard crews put on a dramatic display as part of Weymouth Lifeboat Week.

Hundreds of people gathered at the Nothe Gardens on Monday evening to watch rescue displays by beach lifeguards, coastguards and the RNLI inshore and all-weather lifeboats.

Different scenarios were demonstrated, including people in the water being rescued by lifeguards using a rescue board and surf rescue boat.

Another demonstration saw coastguards walking along the coast and locating a ‘casualty’ who was then treated with first aid and put on to a stretcher.

The casualty was then taken out to the RNLI inshore lifeboat before being transferred to the all-weather lifeboat.

The most crowd-pleasing moment, however, was a joint exercise between the coastguard search and rescue helicopter and the lifeboats.

Demonstrating their skill – and met with applause from the crowds – lifeboat and helicopter crews worked together to winch the casualty to safety while on the move.

Video by BH Marine

The event marked the start of Weymouth Lifeboat Week, the RNLI’s biggest fundraiser with a variety of events held through the week.

Organiser and fundraising co-ordinator, Teresa Drage said: “The event has gone really well. We managed to get the helicopter over from Solent which was a big bonus for us and obviously the kids absolutely loved it.”

She added the events not only helped raise awareness of the RNLI’s work but also helped raise vital funds.

“The RNLI relies on voluntary contributions and without events like this the RNLI would struggle to make ends meet. It’s been a lot of hard work but seeing all these people here makes it all worth it.”

After the display, the crowds on shore were kept entertained by live music from Weymouth band Speedway Snails as well as a bar, and burgers and hot dogs supplied by The Fantastic Sausage Factory.

There was also Punch and Judy for the children and a static display of vintage cars.

Alison Jolliffe from Portesham said she came to the event ‘most years’.

“I come to support the RNLI. It’s a fantastic event and great for the RNLI too to raise money and awareness – and the kids really enjoy it,” Mrs Jolliffe said.

As part of the week, a Stand-up Paddleboard relay race took place at Ferrybridge yesterday organised by Weymouth Water Sports.

Lifeboat Week continues with a host of different events throughout the week.

For more information search Weymouth Lifeboat Fundraising on Facebook.