Lifeguards' 200-mile run for RNLI bicentenary

The 200-mile relay run event marks 200 years of the RNLI

RNLI Lifeguards in Wirral are taking part in a 200-mile (322km) relay run to celebrate the charity’s 200th anniversary.

Thirty-eight lifeguards will run continuously for about 40 hours in the event which is taking place over a five-mile stretch between Harrison Drive beach and New Brighton beach.

The team, which ranges in age from 16 to 60 years old, will be passing a lifeguard rescue tube as a baton and running through the night.

Lead Lifeguard Supervisor for the area, Lucy Tilston, said to team is "proud to be part" of the RNLI's 200-year legacy.

The lifeguards team said it is "proud to be part" of the RNLI's 200 year legacy

"The RNLI has been saving lives at sea for 200 years – a significant milestone for any organisation," she said.

"By supporting our challenge, you are joining a community of lifesavers making a tangible impact on the RNLI’s future."

The RNLI was founded in 1824, and since then its lifeboats and lifeguards have saved more than 146,000 lives.

Its lifeguard service was founded in 2001 has saved more than 2,000 lives.

Its lifeguards have come to the aid of more than 400,000 people on beaches around the coast of Britain and the Channel Islands.

Two extra group runs will be added throughout the challenge to make the distance up to 200 miles, a RNLI representative said.