Ford range was all fired-up to help lifesavers

More than 600 people took part in the fundraiser at the range, in Yapton Road, on Saturday and Sunday, in aid of the RNLI. Punters had a whole host of activities to enjoy, from seeing Second World War re-enactors to sitting in – and driving – a tank. There was even a model boat display and classic car stall by the members of the South Coast ‘Dubbers’ Volkswagen club. Visitors young and old could also take part in air rifle and live-fire shooting, as well as airsoft and paintballing – sports which see competitors shooting either small plastic pellets or paintballs at one another. Organiser Richard Howlett – who has been a lifeboat volunteer for two years – said the event was a success, in spite of Sunday’s wet weather putting a dampener on proceedings. Richard, of Jubilee Avenue, Rustington, said: “It was a really great event. “We must have had about 600 people come through the door, which was brilliant. “Sunday was a bit disappointing because of the weather. But it’s one of those things. “Being an outdoor event, not many people really wanted to go outside when it was raining and I can understand that.” The grand total raised has yet to be counted. However, it looks likely to be in the hundreds of pounds. Planning has now started for next year’s event, which Richard hinted would be bigger and better than ever.