Six volunteers from Exmouth RNLI lifeboat crew are cycling in full kit from Dawlish to Exmouth on Sunday 20 January. They intend to raise money towards the launch and recovery equipment needed for their Shannon lifeboat, expected by early 2014.

SOS Day is all about having fun and raising funds. On the last Friday in January, lifeboat stations and RNLI supporters around the UK and Ireland hold lots of fun events, really brightening up this otherwise dull month! The Exmouth volunteers have decided to hold their event on the previous Sunday in order to catch supporters at each of their rest points around the Exe estuary.

Helmsman Mark Champion’s team consists of fellow crew volunteers: Steve Satchell, Paul Fox, Hedley Saunders, David Preece and Lee Manning. Also assisting with transportation on the day will be volunteer tractor driver Colin May and crew volunteer Charles Swales. RNLI lifeboat medical adviser, Dr. Aitken and a representative from Knobblies Bikes will also be following the volunteers around the route.

The team will be setting off from Dawlish football club at 10.30am and calling at Starcross Fishing and Cruising Club, Topsham, Lympstone and Exmouth sailing clubs en route, to arrive at Exmouth lifeboat station at approximately 3.15pm. On the day, the volunteers will be stopping for lunch at Darts Farm where Sea Safety Officer Peter Williams will be offering advice and a lifejacket clinic. There will be light refreshments available for all at the boathouse from 3pm.

Exmouth's finest buoy band, the Exmouth Shanty Men are supporting the fundraising event by singing lustily between 4 - 4.30pm at the boathouse. Come along and 'Sing Our Shanties' for SOS Day!

If you would like to sponsor the volunteers, please donate online at: www.virginmoneygiving.com/sixonsaddles or at any of the rest points listed.