LIFEBOATS in the North- East have bucked the national trend - they were called out fewer times this summer than last.

Nationally, the RNLI had its busiest summer, with 3,681 launches, an increase of ten per cent on last year.

But stations at Tynemouth, Sunderland, Hartlepool, Redcar and Staithes all reported fewer launches than last year.

However, Whitby and Scarborough lifeboats, both in North Yorkshire, had a busier summer. Whitby made 29 launches, 11 more than last year, making it the busiest station in the North.

Andrew Ashton, RNLI divisional inspector for the North, said: "Around three-quarters of our rescues this summer were undertaken by inshore lifeboats and involved pleasure craft in trouble or individuals in the water or on inflatables.

"As usual, our volunteer RNLI lifeboatmen and women have worked hard this summer while members of the public enjoyed themselves at the coast.

"As well as giving up their own time to rescue people in difficulty at sea, our volunteer crew members dedicate much time and energy each month to training."