FRESHWATER Independent Lifeboat is holding an Open Day today (Saturday) to celebrate its 50th anniversary.

The day’s activities begin at noon, and organisers promise there will be plenty to see and do.

Live music begins with Fat Samba at 12.15pm, with entertainment continuing until late.

Rod Adams, principal fundraiser, said: “None of this would have been possible without the generosity of the community, local companies and of course, our fantastic volunteers who keep everything afloat.”

Along with the sideshows, craft stalls and local traders, you’ll find community partners, including Freshwater Fire station, Needles NCI, IW Search and Rescue and Marine Mammal, who will provide help and information.

Isle of Wight County Press: Freshwater Independent Lifeboat. Photo courtesy of Nicholas Leach.Freshwater Independent Lifeboat. Photo courtesy of Nicholas Leach.

Josh Macgregor, honorary secretary, said: “We hope to provide an amazing day of entertainment for all.

“We will also be hosting our annual tug of war competition against Freshwater Fire to see who will be crowned Freshwater’s strongest emergency service!”

Refreshments will be available throughout the day, from the Travellers Tavern, Wightwood Pizza, and Stripped Burgers, along with some tasty treats baked by the lifeboat’s volunteers.

The day's events include:

  • 12.15pm – FAT Samba
  • 12.30pm – David Randini
  • 13.30pm – Morris Dancers
  • 14.00pm – Bay Wailers
  • 14.30pm – David Randini
  • 15.30pm – Accelerators
  • 17.30pm – Grand Raffle
  • 18.00pm – Tug of War
  • 18.15pm – Tommy Burnhams