RNLI crews from across the South joined forces to mark the 200 years of lifesaving.

The charity was formed in 1824 and has been keeping people safe at sea ever since. 

Crews from stations across the country, including Littlehampton, Eastbourne, Brighton and Newhaven, took part in a special photo opportunity called "one moment for one crew".

Brighton RNLI team, including canine crew members Brighton RNLI team, including canine crew members (Image: RNLI)

Lifeboat crews, lifeguards, fundraisers, shop volunteers and staff all took part in the commemoration.

READ MORE: Celebrating Sussex' RNLI heroes on 200th anniversary

The pictures will be combined to create a 200th year montage image.

Since the RNLI was formed, the organisation has collectively saved more than 146,000 lives, an average of two people a day.

Eastbourne RNLI in front of their vesselEastbourne RNLI in front of their vessel (Image: RNLI)

It was created on March 4, 1824, by sailor Sir William Hillary on the Isle of Man, who was distressed by the number of tragedies at sea he had witnessed.

Anjie Rook, RNLI associate director, who is overseeing the RNLI’s 200th anniversary programmes, said: “The RNLI has been saving lives at sea for 200 years thanks to its incredible people – the courageous lifeboat crews and lifeguards who put their own lives at risk to save others; the dedicated fundraisers who raise the income to power those rescues; the committed volunteers who give their own time in a range of other roles such as giving out water safety advice or helping to run our retail shops and museums, and the staff who provide vital support to our volunteers.

“We have encouraged anyone who has some form of involvement with the RNLI to participate in this special one moment for one crew photographic event, to capture a record of everyone who, at this moment in time, is playing some part in the RNLI’s lifesaving work, continuing its legacy and securing its future.

“During our 200th anniversary year we have been remembering our past, celebrating the lifesaving service we provide today and aiming to inspire future generations of lifesavers and supporters.

“One moment for one crew is very much about celebrating the people of today’s RNLI and, we hope, inspiring those future generations who will take the RNLI into its third century of lifesaving.”