AS THE Port Isaac RNLI approaches its 150th year celebrations, the annual Lifeboat Larks event took place recently with a record attendance.

Well over 1,000 visitors and locals alike enjoying a warm summers day in the harbour, taking the opportunity to meet crew and committee, view the lifeboat on exercise with the new search and rescue coastguard Sikorsky 90 helicopter and to enjoy the wide range of entertainments on offer ranging from children’s face painting including a competition for all age groups, a children’s bouncy castle, duck fishing, egg throwing, a family barbecue, a Pimms stall and a bar.

The local silver band started the day off, followed by the ever popular Pennyroyal Jazz Band, cream teas and a star raffle for a unique special edition reproduction of a painting depicting a historic overland rescue carried out by Port Isaac Lifeboat back in 1877.

Port Isaac Gigs also attended, providing an opportunity for some adventurous visitors to try their hand at swinging an oar.

Lifeboat man, George Cleave, gave a most interesting and informative narration covering the lifeboat to helicopter crew transfer demonstration along with Darren Milner, which took place out just beyond the Harbour Breakwaters.

The day raised a record for this event of over £5,000 in funds for the RNLI.