VOLUNTEERS at St Davids RNLI Lifeboat Station are celebrating after bagging more than £13,000 from ASDA in Pembroke Dock.

The cash raised from carrier bag levies in Wales is a huge boost to the station’s £150,000 appeal towards a new boathouse.

A community fundraising appeal towards a new lifeboat station was launched in July. The appeal is being spearheaded by Wales’ international footballer Ian Walsh and international Welsh rugby player Gerald Davies.

The appeal has already hit £24,000 and the volunteer crew are delighted at the level of support they have received.

Dai John, RNLI Coxswain at St Davids said: “As a charity, the RNLI in St Davids receives tremendous support and this kind donation from ASDA is so very much appreciated. Every penny really does count as we work towards our target, which will ensure the crew have modern new facilities and our Tamar class lifeboat has a home which is fit for purpose.”

Work is well underway on the 20-month project to construct the new facility at the St Justinians site. The boathouse will be home to the station’s new Tamar class lifeboat RNLB Norah Wortley, which is already saving lives off the Pembrokeshire coast whilst operating from a temporary mooring in Ramsey Sound.

The project includes a new RNLI Lifeboat Station and slipway for the Tamar class lifeboat with additional space to accommodate the smaller inshore lifeboat. The boathouse will include modern facilities and better provision for crew training and equipment maintenance. There will be better access to the new station which is important for the delivery of equipment and, more importantly, for the evacuation of any casualties.

To donate £5 towards the appeal, text RNLI St Davids to 70300. Texts cost the standard network message rate in addition to your £5 donation. The RNLI receives 100% of your donation.