MANX and Welsh lifeboat crews have accepted a challenge to "Race the Tamar" in January to raise money for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).
The new Tamar class lifeboat takes 25 minutes to travel eight miles across stormy waters and rival lifeboat crews are challenging each other and the public to run, row or cycle the same distance in a better time.
The winner will be crowned 2011 SOS Challenge Champion.
Crew from Ramsey Lifeboat Station took up the challenge and a two man team rowed eight miles in 55 minutes.
Crew from Rhyl Lifeboat Station cycled the distance in a team of eight and completed the eight mile distance in 29 minutes and Aberystwyth Lifeboat Station crew ran the distance, again in an eight man team, in 62 minutes.
Adele Fuller, RNLI community fundraising manager, encouraged members of the public to get involved. She said: "The SOS Challenge is a friendly competition for all the family. The race can be as fun or competitive as you like – it's up to you.
"RNLI volunteer lifeboat crews risk their lives to go to sea to rescue those in trouble and we rely on donations to carry out this work. Teamwork is essential within the RNLI and the local community contributes a great deal within that team.
"Please help the RNLI raise essential funds on SOS Day, the charity’s biggest fundraising day, by supporting a fundraising event in your area on Friday January 28. Help ensure that our crews can continue saving lives at sea."
For more information on the SOS Challenge telephone the RNLI Fundraising Office on 01217 806960 or visit www.rnli.org.uk/sos.
