SEVEN members of the Lyme Regis RNLI crew made history when they went to sea on Sunday.
Instead of two 115hp engines to power their progress, all they had was oars.
It was one of the first times since 1932 that a lifeboat crew had rowed out of the town’s harbour.
The crew had their first training session for a gig race taking place during Lifeboat week in July when they will compete against teams of coastguards and firefighters.
Lifeboatman John Cable said: “We were being coached by Diana Dixon of the Gig Club, and she said she was pleased with our progress, although she may have been being polite.
“It was hard work, and we did have a few timing issues with the oars.
“But we have more sessions planned, and we are determined to beat those coastguards and firefighters.”
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