NORFOLK'S newest lifeboat will be the star of the show at Caister's annual beachfront fete this weekend.

The gleaming new inshore vessel, which cost more than �40,000 for the boat, engine and trailer, is the latest addition to Caister Lifeboat's fleet and will take centre stage during Sunday's fundraising extravaganza.

Organised by the crew of the independent lifeboat, the fete will also feature traditional stalls such as hoopla and tombola as well as live music, including a set from Hank Bemarvin and the first performance of a specially-written song, Caister Men Never Turn Back sung by the Prelude choir.

Traditional fried herring will be served up to hungry visitors along with burgers, hotdogs and chips, which can all be washed down with a drink from the licenced bar.

A huge raffle is also expected to draw in the crowds, with several top prizes including mini breaks at a luxury hotel in Yoxford, Suffolk, a family holiday with Haven Holidays and tickets to events and attractions in and around Yarmouth, Norwich and London.

Paul Garrod, lifeboat chairman, said: 'We've done really well to get some amazing prizes this year, and give thanks to so many people and local businesses who have supported us.

'It's a difficult year for most so we're really grateful but also we want to offer a good value good time to everyone who comes to see us.'

As well as the new inshore vessel the all weather Bernard Matthews II will also be on display during the day, and will be running launch rides for lucky visitors.

Mr Garrod said: 'Last year we raised around �10,000 which was fantastic. That goes a long way towards our annual running costs.

'This year we need to put the Bernard Matthews II in for a major overhaul as she's now eight years old, and we're expecting the bill to be tens of thousands to overhaul the engines, jets and to repaint the hull.'

The fete starts at 10am on Sunday at the lifeboat station in Tan Lane, at the bottom of Beach Road.