INTREPID canoeists and kayakers are being sought for a paddle around Brownsea Island to raise funds for Poole Lifeboat Station in its 150th year.

The station is celebrating 150 years of saving lives at sea and Paddle for Pounds is among a number of events being held throughout the year.

It aims to attract 150 people or paddled craft to take up the six mile challenge of circumnavigating the Poole Harbour island on Saturday July 11.

The RNLI Training Team is behind the big paddle which is being organised by Glen Mallen, lifeboat training manager and deputy 2nd coxswain at Poole Lifeboat Station.

He said: "I have been an operational volunteer for 19 years and serve as a helm and coxswain at Poole Lifeboat station. As a volunteer I appreciate the effort and time it takes to generate and raise the money that allows us to go to sea and save lives.

"Each year the training team volunteer their time to run a number of fundraising events to support this valuable work. We would love to have you join us for this one."

The paddling fleet will set off from the RNLI College at 11am for the paddle to the south side of Brownsea Island for a break and a chance to rest and take on board some refreshments.

They will then take advantage of the tide and and paddle back to the RNLI College at approximately 4.30pm where there will be a cash barbecue and bar open.

There is a minimum of £10 donation per person to enter and registration is limited to the first 150 people wishing to take part.

To register contact Glen Mallen at glen_mallen@rnli.org.uk or make a donation at justgiving.com/RNLIPaddleforpounds.

Paddle for Pounds is open to everyone and participants must be prepared to take on the conditions of the open harbour and be physically fit.