PORTISHEAD'S RNLI team have said that they "can't wait" to celebrate the charity's 200th anniversary this year.

The life-saving crew have had an eventful 2023. In total, they responded to 40 calls outs and kept multiple people and dogs safe.

In addition, the crew welcomed their first ever female helm, Susan Beaton. Speaking soon after she was appointed, Susan said: "At every step of this journey I have pushed myself to meet the high standard the RNLI expects of its helms, and throughout this process I have been supported by the fantastic crew around me.

"It’s a privilege and an honour to be the first female helm at the station."

On top of this, new team members have been added and their own families expanded - the RNLI hope that this could lead to a future generation of life-saving volunteers.

Posting on Facebook, a spokesperson from the RNLI Portishead team said: "Thank you for all your support in 2023. It's been an incredible year for RNLI Portishead crew and we are taking a moment to reflect on the last 365 days.

"We've had 40 call outs and continued to work closely with our wider Search and Rescue family to keep people (and three dogs) safe throughout the year.

"Our volunteers have trained twice a week, whatever the weather, and have responded to the pagers whatever time of day or night.

"2023 saw us celebrate the RNLI's first ever female helm (our very own Susan Beaton), and we were proud of our very own shanty band - the The 85ers - representing us at the King's Coronation in May.

"We've recognised the long service of several of the volunteer crew, as well as welcoming new crew members - and new crew member's babies who we hope will continue the RNLI legacy!

"2024 will see us marking the 200th anniversary of the RNLI, and there will be many special activities and events throughout the year to commemorate and celebrate the crews of the past and present, and to inspire the crews of the future. We can't wait to share this with you.

"In the meantime, have a safe and happy 2024."