Exmouth RNLI has revealed that its income fell by 70 per cent last year, leaving the branch in urgent need of donations.

Despite the Covid pandemic and lockdown restrictions, the lifeboat crews remained fully operational and attended nearly 80 emergency call-outs during 2020 – 52 involving the inshore lifeboat and 27 with the all-weather boat.

But at the same time, all the branch's scheduled fundraising activities were cancelled including the lifeboat station open day, the Maer Rocks Festival, Sea Sunday, the fireworks display and the Christmas carol service.

Permits for planned street collections were also withdrawn, and other donations, such as those given by businesses or in memory of a lost loved one, also fell.

The chair of the Exmouth RNLI Fundraising Committee, Des White, said "All of us are facing unprecedented times and we have seen a huge impact on our volunteers' ability to fundraise locally, and it's having a serious impact on our finances.

"I especially want to pay tribute to our local supporters, volunteers and staff as, even in this most difficult period, our dedicated lifeboat crew here in Exmouth, along with all those who support them, continue to ensure our vital search and rescue facility remains on service, ready round the clock to save anyone in trouble at sea.

"They need people's support more than ever during this crisis."

Anyone wishing to help raise funds or make a donation can so by contacting Des at