WITH the recently released RNLI Lifeboat Service annual statistics showing how busy the volunteer lifeboat crew were around our shores in 2009, the local RNLI Station at Skerries are trying to raise funds to keep them afloat.

Skerries volunteer crew launched the lifeboat 18 times on rescue callouts between January and December 2009. Of these 18 callouts, 24 people were rescued.

Most of these callouts were for sailing / fishing craft in difficulty at sea, though some callouts also involved working closely with the Civil Defence and our local fire brigade. The committee and volunteer crew at Skerries lifeboat station are very lucky to have a loyal group of people locally who fundraise on their behalf and who, year on year, organise fundraising events and send that money raised to the station.

Without the likes of these people, and anyone who in anyway subscribes to the RNLI, the volunteer crew would not be able to continue their work.

With the help of these people who continually fundraise, the RNLI can continue to operate as the charity that saves lives at sea. One group who got in early with their SOS fundraiser was the Dive Inn Scuba Club. They braved the snow, ice and cold on New Year's Day and swam around the harbour in Skerries. They raised in excess of € 2,200, for which Skerries RNLI are very grateful. Local members are also getting involved in the RNLI SOS Day by taking part in an event called 'Share Our Supper'

The charity is asking you to host a supper in the Come Dine With Me spirit and ask people for a € 15 donation for their meal.

It can be as simple as you like, simply a plate of supper and perhaps a glass of wine. Ideally guests would reciprocate in round robin fashion, however, this is not essential. The event is completely flexible and can take place whenever suits the host! The fundraising team at the RNLI headquarters will issue a pack to each host with details, a donation box and we will even throw in the napkins.

Just call Tracey at 0879974038 or email at TMcDonagh@rnli.org.uk. Don't hesitate to contact the team in Swords or Skerries if you've a fundraising idea. We'll only be too delighted to help.

All funds raised go to train and equip the charity's brave volunteer crews, who continue to save lives on Irish waters all year round. It's not too late for people to get involved in SOS day. Information is available online at rnli.ie/sos with lots of ideas and facts or you can email tmcdonagh@rnli.org.uk.