Photos: Thousands get behind lifeboats at Crewfest '24

Torbay RNLI continued festivities for the institution’s 200th anniversary by hosting CrewFest ’24.

This Quayside Music and Street Food festival in Brixham’s harbour had locals, tourists, family and friends partying throughout the day and into the evening.

The day was generously supported by main sponsor Inter-Line, who said: “We've supported RNLI Torbay for many many years, so we are delighted to continue our support at today's Crewfest.”

Ron Campion, lead organiser of the event and DLA at Torbay RNLI said; “Not only was the food delicious, but it was also locally sourced, and then beautifully cooked by crew supported by some cordon blue wives and local chefs. It was still a surprise early afternoon, when we realised that we were about to run out of seafood! We had to head across the harbour for more provisions.

"Thankfully, our friends and sponsors Sefton Seafish and Combe Fisheries, who do really amazing cuttlefish and scallops, were able to oblige, so we never actually ran out of anything in the end.”

CrewFest ’24 offered entertainment for the whole family, with stage and DJ, local musicians, shanty singers, dancers, and a special kids' area. The evening then turned a little more rock-and-roll with dancing and live music from popular bands including headline act Nuthin’ but Mammals.

“The stage with sound system and lighting was spot on. Loud enough to get the party going with more than a few getting up and boogying, including some surprises amongst the crew, which we’ve got on camera! But it was not so loud that we were waking up the whole town. “

Just over two thousand turned up to enjoy the party. Entry was free, but the extent of voluntary donations was a huge and welcome surprise, with four buckets filled up just by those coming through the front gate.

“We were ably supported by Bays Brewery who supplied a fantastic bar pavilion and full line-up of cold ales, ciders and wine. And the range of foods was extensive, with freshest seafood obviously, but also the tastiest pizzas that went down particularly well with the kids, as well as street-Thai, delicious 'dirty-fries' and the scummiest cakes and cream teas.

"Our thanks go to all those who brought their fares here, who set up and then ran their fabulous stalls over what was a long but very happy day. Indeed, many thanks to all our sponsors, supporters, helpers and the public who came and made this such a very special day.

“That said, the biggest thanks to Interline Builders Merchant, who once again stepped up right at the outset as our lead sponsor, enabling our ambitious plans to become a reality.

”Given this response, we hope to repeat the event next year, So here’s to CrewFest ’25!”