RNLI Somerset launched 120 lifeboats and saved five lives in 2023

The RNLI is asking people to cover one mile a day throughout May

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) in Somerset launched 120 lifeboats in 2023, saving five lives.

In total, RNLI crews saved 72 lives in the south west of England last year.

The figures are released as the charity launches its Mayday Mile fundraising challenge, asking supporters to cover a mile a day in any activity throughout May.

Dave Nicoll from RNLI Somerset said: "Our crews day in, day out, 24/7 are saving lives all around our coast."

Mr Nicoll told BBC Somerset the majority of launches were in Weston-super-Mare, where a lifeboat was sent out 54 times, saving two people's lives.

Three lives were also saved at Minehead last year, with dozens of others assisted in the water along the Somerset coast.

Across the UK and Ireland, RNLI lifeboats were launched more than 1,500 times in 2023

"Every single rescue we carry out is different," said Mr Nicoll, who has been an RNLI crew member for 44 years.

"Handing back a person to their family, bringing them back after a difficult situation can be quite emotional.

"Our volunteers just make that difference."

Mr Nicholl explained 8,500 people volunteer with the RNLI in the south west, adding: "Every single one of them makes a contribution to the team effort."

The Mayday Campaign asks people to cover a mile per day throughout May in any activity, for example, walking, running, swimming or cycling.