by Peter Barnett

The people of Thanet once again gave generously to support the RNLI's SOS Day appeal on Friday, with schools, colleges, businesses, groups and individuals digging deep to give generously.

Pirates, mermaids and sea monsters pushed the boat out for the appeal in Birchington where more than 400 youngsters and staff at the village primary school dressed in colourful and creative costumes and raised more than £270.

As part of the event, members of the Ramsgate RNLI lifeboat crew visited the school to talk about their work around the coast and to deliver important messages about water safety.

Head teacher Kath Barham said: "We had great fun raising money for an extremely worthwhile cause."

At Hartsdown Technology College in Margate, pastoral manager Jackie Quigley in a spotty stripey outfit complete with glitter wig and sailor's hat led a team who collected for the RNLI at the gates in the freezing cold and rain.

The college theme for SOS Day was 'Stripes or Spots' and students and staff turned up in a variety of colourful outfits, raising around £400 in the process.

Vice principal Tony Davies said: "Lifeboat crews do a terrific job and at a time when coastal recreation is increasing, they play a vital role."

Meanwhile, boys from Chatham House School radio and electronics club set up base at Ramsgate lifeboat station. They broadcast across amateur radio bands to promote the SOS appeal.

Teacher John Hislop who runs the popular after-school club said: "The idea was not to ask for money, simply to publicise the work of the lifeboats and to make as many contacts as possible but we raised more than £250 in sponsorship."

The boys, who have their foundation amateur radio licences, contacted enthusiasts around Europe and the UK.