GALLERY: Crowds swell the lifeboat's funds

A RECORD number of people turned out for the Newhaven Lifeboat Fete on Saturday.

The event, which spanned the weekend, is thought to have raised thousands of pounds for the RNLI, although organisers are still totting up the final figure.

It was the 61st consecutive fete since World War Two.

As well as stalls, raffles and fun and games there was also a 'posh auction', which raised 500.

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The Mayor, Cllr Graham Amy, was there and presented a cheque for 835.71 to the RNLI on behalf of the Jack and Jill Fun Toddler playgroup.

The group had toddled from their base at Newhaven Baptist Church to the fete at Huggetts Green, West Quay, to raise the money.

Newhaven Lifeboat treasurer Alan Brothers said: 'Newhaven is very much a working town and the support they give the lifeboat is tremendous.'

On Sunday, visitors enjoyed a simulated search and rescue close in to Seaford beach by the Le Havre and Newhaven lifeboats.

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The French vessel had made a 90-mile dash across the Channel to take part in the weekend.

Both craft had to contend with rough seas and squally showers.

The two lifeboat stations have been twinned since 1993 and face similar call-outs as they are both in ports used for commercial and pleasure.

The Le Havre delegation was headed by their president, Philippe Valetoux, and coxswain Bertrand Caillet.

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Their arrival on Saturday morning generated enormous interest and the public were able to board both of the vessels and meet the crews.

During the weekend both lifeboat crews shared their experiences and expertise, and their knowledge of their boats' equipment.

Unfortunately, due to the weather on Sunday, their visit was cut short and they left early in the afternoon, heading in to very strong south-westerly seas and winds, but vowing to meet again.

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