THERE was a hive of activity in Bude recently as the masses turned out to support a good cause for the town’s lifeboat weekend.

Each year, residents and visitors to the town enjoy three days of fun and fundraising as part of the annual lifeboat weekend, an event organised in an effort to raise funds for the local RNLI.

From August 23 to 26, the town was host to a variety of events hoping to shine a spotlight on the vital work done by volunteers across the country.

Some of the events on offer to attendees included the Rotary duck race, Morris dancing, plenty of live music and even some rowing races. 

This year’s event was even more special, as it marked the 200th anniversary year of the RNLI.  

Since the charity was founded in 1824, its volunteer crews in Cornwall, Devon, Somerset West Dorset and the Channel Islands have launched the lifeboats 55,912 times, saving 14,967 lives.

With 2024’s lifeboat weekend marking such a big occasion, there were some big things planned, including a bi-centennial pasty competition and Bude’s ‘biggest firework display ever’.  

With the town buzzing with enjoyment, the town’s RNLI have thanked everyone for their support over the three days.

A spokesperson for Bude RNLI said: “A big heartfelt thank you to all who supported and enjoyed our 2024 lifeboat weekend!

“Huge thank you to all our crew and volunteers for their hard work and commitment over the past six days and a special shout out to the lifeboat weekend community for all their hard work organising the whole event over the past few months.

“Not forgetting all our amazing sponsors this year.

“We would like to say thank you to you all for making our 2024 RNLI 200th weekend one to always remember.”