THOUSANDS of people turned out for Hoylake's annual lifeboat day and helped raise more than £16,000 for the station.

Among the attractions during the Bank Holiday Monday event were kite displays, a funfair, trade stands, charity stalls, raffles and tours of the lifeboat.

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There was also a large inflatable assault course for children, run by two ex-marines.

More than 15,000 people turned out for event on Bank Holiday Monday.

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Lifeboat day visitors. Picture: Helen Miles

Organiser Carole Jackson told the Globe: "The sun shone down and it was a fantastic day. "Crowds were thrilled to see this year the Northern Kite Group who flew Giant Kites giving demonstrations all day.

"We had some very positive feedback about and the day

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"There was a queue most of the day for visitors who wanted to go over the Lifeboat and chat to the crew.

"Many people took advantage of the warm weather and had picnics on the beach.

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Above: Watching the kites and, below, coastguards with young lifeboat day visitors. Pictures: Helen Miles

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"The boathouse was busy all day, with record sales of souvenirs and catering.

"Local people on the promenade had barbecues in their gardens and took advantage of the weather and the kite flying all day."

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Mike and son James enjoy an ice cream. Picture: Helen Miles

"Children were delighted to see a large inflatable assault course over 150 feet of tunnels, ropes, and tubes."

Hoylake lifeboat Coxwain Andy Dodd added: "It was a fantastic day with many people showing interest in the New Shannon Class Lifeboat.

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Mascot Stormy Sam with RNLI staff. Picture: Helen Miles

"The crew would like to thank the local community for taking the time and opportunity to come along and support us.

"We still have some money coming in from the day, but up to last night we had banked over £16,000, which is a fantastic amount."