RNLI volunteers saved more than 400 lives last year, new figures released this week have revealed.

The total of 408 lives saved – an average of more than one a day – represented a 17 per cent increase on the previous year.

Nearly a quarter of those - 93 lives – related to incidents involving southwest lifeboats and lifeguards.

Meanwhile the Minehead station’s two boats were launched a total of 31 times with the crews helping 33 people to safety – part of the region’s tally of 1,350 people, helped – an 11 per cent increase on 2020.

The charity is now putting out its own Mayday call as it faces yet another busy summer. With high numbers of visitors expected as people continue to choose to holiday closer to home, more funds are needed to ensure the lifesaving service is able to keep everyone safe.

Minehead RNLI’s operations manager Dr John Higgie said crews were bracing for another busy summer with Covid-related travel restrictions now but a memory.

‘‘It’s inevitable the season will see thousands of people at risk of getting into danger by the water, generally ordinary people just enjoying days out with family or friends,” he said.

“But we need to be ready. Training, kit, stations and fuel all cost money, which is why we are turning to the generosity of the public to make sure we are there to respond to emergencies 24 hours a day.”

The RNLI’s Mayday national fundraiser begins on Sunday May 1 and will run for the entire month across the UK and Ireland.

Minehead RNBLI chairman Richard Newton said: “It’s clear from these new figures that demand for our services is continuing to rise, with our lifesavers dropping everything to run to the lifeboat station when the call comes.

“Every penny raised during Mayday will go towards ensuring we are ready to save even more lives this year.”

To sign up for the Mayday Mile, or to make a donation in support of the RNLI’s lifesavers, visit RNLI.org/supportMayday