Eastney inshore lifeboat station's Open Day on May 1 was a time for celebration: during a crowded afternoon Sir Alec Rose (left), president of the local appeal committee, handed over to Mrs Georgina Keen, a member of the Committee of Management, the final £6,000 cheque to complete the cost of the boathouse. Mrs Keen then made two surprise presentations of framed letters of thanks from the Institution, one to Mr. V.

Blanchard, who is chairman of the appeal committee, and one to the Eastney crew. The afternoon continued with demonstrations afloat by the two ILBs with a Royal Navy helicopter from Lee-on-Solent. Bembridge lifeboat and Hayling Island ILB were in attendance, and visitors were welcomed from Walmer, where Hampshire Rose is stationed.

RNLI displays ashore were backed by those of other emergency services..