THOUSANDS of people turned out for Hoylake's annual lifeboat day and helped raise an estimated £20,000 for the station.

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

There was also an 'original' Green Goddess fire engine for young and old to explore along with a selection of vintage buses from Birkenhead bus and Tram Museum.

The weather may not have been the best to begin, but it soon brightened up.

Organiser Carole Jackson told the Globe: "It was a slow start to the day with clouds and wind, but just after noon the sun shone brightly and we had approximately eight to ten thousand people who visited open day.

"The Northern Kite Group had some fabulous displays of giant kites and they displayed throughout the day.

"The Hoylake hovercraft and West Kirby Inshore Lifeboat Hagland thrilled the crowd with displays."

Carole continued: "Many families could be seen on the beach and grass areas having picnics with their friends and enjoying the event.

"It's too early to give an exact amount but we are confident that approximately £20,000 has been raised for the RNLI."