A fundraising week in aid of the RNLI aims to be bigger and better than ever when it returns later this month.

Plans are being finalised for lifeboat weeks, one of the biggest summer attractions in Lyme Regis, which raises thousands of pounds for the life-saving charity.

This year’s event gets underway on Saturday, July 27, with it being officially opened by actor John Challis who played Boycie in the BBC hit TV series, ‘Only Fools and Horses’.

All the old favourites return to the week’s attractions, including the bathtub race, tug of war across the harbour mouth and the spectacular Army parachute display by The Red Devils.

There will be a mix of events to appeal to all ages, including the swimming challenge for adults and children, a birds of prey demonstration and a crab fishing competition.

One new attraction this year is a singalong version of the film ‘Mamma Mia!’ being screened at the Marine Theatre. This event also includes a competition for the best Abba adult and child outfit.

Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week is organised by local volunteer RNLI fundraisers, the Lyme Regis and Charmouth Lifeboat Supporters, with help from the lifeboat crew.

Ken Lavery, chairman of the supporters, said: “At first there were lifeboat days, but Lyme Regis has had an action-packed lifeboat week since the 1970s and in recent years the event has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for our life-saving charity.

“On average, the week raises between £30,000 and £35,000 and we are deeply grateful to visitors, residents and traders for their generous donations.

“This year we believe we have a bigger and better event all round, and all we need for another great week is good weather.”

For more information, search for Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week on Facebook.

Detailed programmes will be available online and in outlets around the town, including the lifeboat shop on the Cobb, nearer the time.