A STALWART of the Freshwater Independent Lifeboat fundraising team has decided to retire following her last 'shout' at the age of 90.

Pearl Morley has been a fundraiser for 22 years, initially as secretary of the fundraising committee and then as membership secretary.

But, at a surprise birthday party at her Freshwater home, she announced a surprise of her own — she had decided to step down.

The party was organised by Pearl's daughter, Carolyn Philpots, and attended by lifeboat supporters including Paddy Longmore and Rod Adams.

Pearl, from Freshwater, said: "I thought it was about time to give somebody else a chance. You get to an age when you just give the full-on commitment.

"It's been wonderful for me and I have made many friends along the way."

Pearl used to serve in the lifeboat shop two days a week and, for two decades, ran the jewellery stall at the charity's open days.

She said: "I've really enjoyed my time there.

"I had a fabulous afternoon with friends and family and it was great that Paddy could turn up. He has been with the lifeboat for 25 years and at 83 is still going strong.

"I'm sure I will keep in touch with everyone after all these years."