The RNLI celebrates its 191st birthday today. Founded in 1824 by Sir William Hillary, its volunteer crews and lifeguards have saved more than 140,000 lives.

Lifeboat man reunited with wedding ring dropped on a shout SEVEN YEARS ago

Here are six of our favourite RNLI videos from the British Pathe archives...

1. From 1933, this video explores the "hospital of the seas." 

"Lifeboats have their own "hospital" where the damage caused by the ravages of the sea is made good. What tales of heroism the boat could tell..." 

 

2. The Bravest of the Brave 

Seven lifeboatmen are awarded medals for being the "bravest of the brave".

 

3.  Heroines of the sea

The description for this film reads: "R. N. Lifeboat Institution confers bronze medal for conspicuous gallantry at Newbiggin on Coxswain W. Robinson. Mrs Dent and Mrs Clark received thanks of the institution on behalf of 25 brave women who launched the lifeboat in heavy sea." Two women who stand and pose for the camera. They wear floral dresses and look rather look severe. Note: they could be two awful aunts. "

 

4. The amazing self-righting lifeboat 

A new lifeboat that will not capsize is demonstrated at Portsmouth Naval Dockyard in 1966.

 

5. Take your hat off to the lifeboat men!

The only one of the five filmed in Dorset, the caption at the start of this 1922 video reads: "After launch of new Lifeboat Crew give thrilling demonstration of lifesaving."

 

6. And finally 

The RNLI has put together this compilation of video footage from rescues in 2014.

 

The charity is trying to get 191 new @RNLI Twitter followers today to mark its birthday - are you following them yet?