The recent storms have presented more challenges to the lifeboats It has been a very busy - and costly time - for the organisation and with no government funding, the task of fundraising has never been more important.

The Largs RNLI fundraising branch is rising to the challenge again and has organised another “Soup on Saturday” which has been very successful in the past. It is being held at the Clark Memorial Church Hall on Saturday 31 January from 11.30am to 2pm.

Fundraising co-ordinator Cathy Holgate said: “A bowl of soup is always welcome in the bitterly cold weather we have been experiencing after the storms! And this provides an opportunity to show your support to our volunteer lifeboat crews who risk their lives to save others at sea and on land, and to the lifeguards who patrol some of the popular beaches.

“The work of the search and rescue service increases year on year and now on average its saves 23 people a day. We are grateful to the local businesses who continue to support this day with the two soups being provided by The Lounge and the Willowbank Hotel, and the rolls being donated by Morrisons. We’ll be making the yummy cakes!

“But for it to be successful, we need the local people coming along to taste the wares and give us their support as they always do! There will be choices of soup and rolls and tea/coffee and a cake—all for £5. There will also be a prize draw for a ferry car trip donated by CalMac, and a painting, as well as a tombola. So please drop in whilst you are doing your shopping or arrange to meet some of your family and friends—and get a warm!”