A large crowd has watched the annual RNLI sea rescue demonstration off Southwold which was held on Saturday to mark Lifeboat Day.

Southwold's lifeboat The Leslie Tranmer joined the Tyne Class Spirit of Lowestoft and a local fishing boat to demonstrate how the RNLI saves lives at sea.

As well as Southwold exercise were held off Dunwich.

The Southwold crew acted as mariners who abandoned a fishing boat and boarded a six-man life raft before being transferred to the Spirit of Lowestoft.

Spectators also saw The Leslie Tranmer rescue swimmers who found themselves in difficulties.

Other events during the day included a sandcastle competition, sponsored by Suzie's Beach Caf� and judged by actor Donald Gee, star of BBC's Born and Bred and recognised by many for his appearances in Dr Who and Coronation Street.

David Tytler, chair of the Southwold and Dunwich Fundraisers, said: 'A lifeboat was first stationed in Southwold in 1841 and I am very grateful to all those who give their time and support to continue the service in the town.

'In 2011 nationally the RNLI cost �145.5m - raised from voluntary contributions and legacies.

'On average, the RNLI has saved two lives every day for 187 years.

'None of this would be possible without the generous donations we receive. I am very grateful to all those concerned.'

TWO people on a sailing boat had to be rescued after their craft go into difficulty off Southwold on Sunday morning.

The boat had drifted onto a sea wall by the town's harbour after its engine lost power at about 10.30am.

The rescue involved Southwold's lifeboat crew and Lowestoft coastguard.