OVER 300 lifeboat volunteers and supporters flocked to the Batch Country hotel, for a night of entertainment and fun at the Burnham-on-Sea RNLI ball.

The event began with a short presentation and video by organiser, Lesley-Ruth Hart, and Operations Manager, Matt Davies.

The lights were then dimmed for a lighted juggling sequence by Rob from the Circus Malabaristas company, before guests were served with a magnificent three course meal.

Following the meal, awards were presented to Lesley-Ruth Hart and members of station management for their efforts over the past year.

Area Fundraising Manager Ellie Walker said at the presentation: "The volunteers were given the task last year, of raising £48,000 for a new lifeboat.

"The community supported them and the resultant response enabled them to not only reach this, but exceed it, they deserve credit where credit is due."

Mr Davies said: "We are proud of our new lifeboat Burnham Reach, which we actually received last Wednesday week, and thank the community for their response."

Ms Lesley-Ruth Hart said: "I am once again so proud to be part of Burnham RNLI, you all did the station proud last night.

"Thank you for doing everything you could to make last night run without a hitch and thank you for my beautiful flowers.

"The award came as quite a shock and I now know who put me up for that, you know who you are, so thank you so much.

"Just thought you would all like to know the final total - £4300 raised for our station.

"That was split almost equally between a raffle and auction."