Sussex lifeboat crews saved at least 35 lives last year, according to new figures.

East Sussex lifeboats were launched 259 times in 2000 and 23 people were rescued from life-threatening incidents.

Another 57 people at risk were also landed by the crews during the 12-month period.

In West Sussex, lifeboat crews were launched 121 times last year and 12 people were rescued when their life was under threat.

Alan Young, honorary secretary of Brighton lifeboat, said: "We had an extremely busy year and there were 73 launches by Brighton lifeboat. We help an awful lot of people."

Eddie Buckland, at Eastbourne lifeboat, said they were also often called out to people jumping off piers.

One victim saved by lifeboat crews was surfer Lloyd Hanslow, who was knocked over by a gust of wind near the Palace Pier, Brighton.

Mr Hanslow said: "I came close to drowning and I am grateful to the lifeboatmen. They do a great job."

A total of 6,326 people were rescued last year on the English and Scottish coastline and there was a launch by a volunteer crew every 70 minutes.

Ian Benham, RNLI sea check manager, said: "We are delighted that many avoidable accidents have been prevented, resulting in a drop in RNLI call-outs."