A CHARITY responsible for helping keep Portland's coastline safe has been hit by an eye-watering repair bill.

Coastwatch, Portland Bill is a volunteer-run organisation that operates from the Portland Bill Lookout to report any issues at sea to the coastguard and emergency services.

The team currently needs to raise £3,000 to replace specialist marine windscreen wipers in the watch room. The wipers are vital in enabling them to maintain a watchful gaze - however repairs and replacing equipment adds to the normal running costs, which are funded entirely through donations.

To pay for the repair, Coastwatch volunteers are holding a coffee morning at Easton Methodist Church Hall on Saturday November 23 from 10am until 12pm.

All are invited to the event, where will be an array of delicious homemade cakes on sale, together with crafts, books and bric-a-brac as well as a tombola and raffle.

Guests can also chat to the team of highly trained volunteers who man the watch 364 days a year to ensure the safety of everyone who uses the water and the land area around Portland Bill.

For more information contact the station on 01305 860178.