Forty youngsters were given a taste of sea fishing and also raised more than £2,500 for Ramsgate RNLI.
A sea fishing competition arranged by lifeboatmen and charter skipper Jason Parrott and his wife Dawn received a huge response from people locally and one lad even made his drive him down from Leeds to take part.
Organisers were overwhelmed by the generosity shown both by Thanet anglers and businesses who donated so many items that each youngster got a medal and a prize. All Ramsgate’s charter boats took part and donated the use of their craft for free.
Prizegiving took place at the Ramsgate RNLI boathouse and was followed by a free barbecue for all the entrants and helpers. Food was also donated by isle businesses and volunteer chefs did the cooking.
Jason said: “The day was better than we had dared to hope. We have got 40 kids away from their video screens and out in the fresh air. They have learnt about safety at sea, caught some fish and maybe learnt a bit about wildlife and the town they live in.
“We owe a massive debt of thanks to all who donated prizes and time to make this a special day. I hope to make this an annual event.”
Dawn added: “We hoped to make a fun day out with a serious purpose, we must never forget that lifeboatmen give their time freely to keep us all safe around our coastline.”
Prizes included free fishing trips on local charter boats, fishing rods and tackle, vouchers and cash.