SUMMER fundraising events at Roa Island to support the work the lifeboat crew have become a fixture on the Furness entertainment calendar but it was all new back in 1986.

The Mail, on August 25, noted: "The summer fete at Roa Island was such a success that Barrow Ladies' Lifeboat Guild members are considering holding the fundraising event every year.

"More than £600 was raised."

Secretary Dorothy Benson said it was the first time the women had organised a fete at Roa Island.

She said: "We think we might hold one each year now that it was a success."

There was a demonstration by the new inshore boat, musical entertainment, stalls, sideshows and refreshments.

Among the traditional events on offer was the chance to pluck a prize from a bran tub for 25p.