(Image: RNLI)
A North Yorkshire lifeboat station has thanked supporters after its annual fundraising weekend raised nearly £13,000 to help save lives at sea.
The Staithes and Runswick RNLI Lifeboat Weekend brought together residents, visitors, volunteers and supporters for a packed programme of entertainment, fundraising and community spirit.
Colin Harrison, lifeboat weekend co-ordinator, said: "Lifeboat Weekend is always a special occasion for Staithes and Runswick, and this year was no exception.
Ex Tyne-class RLM Norman Bennett arriving at Staithes Harbour, along with Staithes' Atlantic 85 lifeboat
(Image: RNLI/James Stoker)
"There is an enormous amount of work that goes on behind the scenes to make the weekend happen, and I would like to thank every volunteer, performer, organiser, business and member of the community who contributed."
The event began with music on the staith as the crew gathered for the Nightgown Parade, a traditional procession through the village.
Meanwhile, the Men of Staithes entertained crowds at The Royal Hotel in Runswick Bay with their singing.
Raft race
(Image: RNLI)
On Saturday morning, the lifeboat visited Runswick Bay, where volunteers ran an RNLI stall and tombola.
Visitors in Staithes enjoyed food from the Rapid Relief Team, along with stalls and a popular afternoon raft race.
A highlight of the weekend was the arrival of the former Tyne-class lifeboat RLM Norman Bennett, brought to Staithes by Red Lion Marine.
The vessel previously served as the St David’s lifeboat under the name Garside and has now been renamed in honour of the late Norman Bennett, a respected Tees Pilot Cutter Skipper.
The Tyne-class lifeboat has strong regional ties, with similar vessels having served at Whitby, Hartlepool and Teesmouth.
Attendees also had the chance to witness life-saving work in action during a rescue demonstration in the harbour.
RNLI lifeboats from Redcar and Staithes and Runswick simulated the rescue of two paddleboarders in difficulty.
Among the more unusual attractions was the Human Fruit Machine, which proved a hit with visitors and added a light-hearted element to the fundraising activities.
Across the water at Cowbar, chef Johnnie Forbes served seafood throughout the weekend, with support from Gilpin Bradley and Gillian Osbourne.
Saturday night featured live music on the staith from the Middlesbrough Jazz and Blues Orchestra and Harthill Village Voices.
A planned fireworks display by G2 Fireworks was cancelled due to government advice about dry conditions and the increased risk of fire.
Despite the disappointment, the evening’s music continued as planned.
Sunday featured the ever-popular Great Duck Race, with hundreds of ducks making their way down the beck.
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The weekend concluded with services at both Runswick Bay and Staithes, led by station chaplain Father Adam Gaunt and accompanied by East Cleveland Brass.
Mr Harrison said: "The weather was very kind to us again and, although the increased fire risk meant we had the disappointment of cancelling the fireworks, it was pleasing to see such good crowds turning out for the other events across the weekend.
"We’re already looking forward to seeing everyone again next year."
Next year’s Staithes and Runswick Lifeboat Weekend will take place from Friday 30 July to Sunday 1 August 2027.