Flags will fly at lifeboat stations in Clacton, Harwich and Walton as crews celebrate the 175th anniversary of the RNLI tomorrow.

Flares and maroons will be fired and special anniversary flags hoisted at the Clacton and Harwich stations and the Walton and Frinton station.

Frances Aldridge, anniversary project manager said: "We particularly need to inform young people, for they will be the generation that will keep the lifeboat service functioning in the 21st century."

Other anniversary events in the region include the naming of a Great Eastern Railways' train RNLI Essex Lifeboats which will be held on Monday.

Members of the public can also give donations in return for one of three special anniversary pin badges.

This appeal aims to raise £1.7 million to buy a Severn class all-weather lifeboat similar to the one used in Harwich.

Clacton lifeboat is looking for more volunteers to join the life-saving team. To join you have to be aged 18 to 40 and work in the town.

If you are interested contact Rob Smith on 01255 421090 or Rob Bradbrook on 01255 421097.

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