Lifesaving volunteers who risk their own lives to rescue swimmers and sailors who get into danger off the Norfolk coast have been hailed by a major housebuilder. 

Persimmon Homes Anglia sent a team to visit Caister Lifeboat to present a cheque for £5,000 to the charity. 

Michelle Baker, the developer’s managing director, was joined by sales director Jorden Knell and head of planning Debi Sherman for the handover.

They were given a tour of the lifeboat station and neighbouring museum as they presented the money, made available through Persimmon’s Community Champions scheme. 

Great Yarmouth Mercury: A cheque is presented to Caister Lifeboat by Persimmon Homes. A cheque is presented to Caister Lifeboat by Persimmon Homes. (Image: Persimmon Homes)

READ MORE: Caister Lifeboat's medina-class vessel expected later in year

The station is currently waiting for the arrival of its brand new, custom-made offshore lifeboat in the new year after fundraising for 20 years to cover the cost. 

Paul Garrod, chairman of Caister Lifeboat, said: “It costs £190,000 a year to keep the lifeboat service afloat here in Caister and we are grateful to Persimmon for the donation towards these costs. 

"It means we can continue serving the people of Caister, and the rest of the country as we are always busy with holidaymakers in the summer months." 

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Caister Lifeboat's new Medina-class vessel housed in the Isle of Wight, pictured in September this year. Caister Lifeboat's new Medina-class vessel housed in the Isle of Wight, pictured in September this year. (Image: Diverse Marine)

Ms Baker said: “It was a pleasure to meet the team of volunteers who keep this vital service operating, and ensure those using our waters are kept as safe. 

“At Persimmon Homes we are keen to build communities and our charitable schemes help those groups and organisations who do just that – supporting those that make our towns and villages into caring and supportive communities.” 

Councillor Penny Carpenter, mayor of Great Yarmouth, joined the presentation and explained that the Caister volunteer lifeboat service is one of her chosen charities of the year. 

She said: “I represent Caister, and the lifeboat volunteers represent Caister. They are such a worthy organisation and provide such a valuable service to the people of Caister.”