ST IVES National Coastline Institution (NCI) is celebrating its 20 anniversary this year.

For two decades volunteer watchkeepers have monitored boat movements, the activities of water sports enthusiasts, beach-goers and cliff-walkers from 7.30am to 6pm every day,

Watchkeepers monitor marine activity around the bay to provide an early warning system to summon help to anyone getting into difficulties.

NCI members will be celebrating with a buffet at the West Cornwall Golf Club in August and, in the meantime, their fund-raising will continue.

Station manager Helen Simpson said: "We are always delighted to receive donations and would love to hear from anyone who could help with organising fund-raising events for us."

As a voluntary organisation, St Ives NCI has to raise its own funds through donations, public collections and its successful book store ajoining the station on The Island.

The organisation thanked donators, including St Ives Town Council, which recently donated £1,000 towards the provision of new electronic marine wipers, an essential piece of equipment. Other pieces of equipment necessary to carry out coastline duties include high-powered binoculars, radar, radio and even webcam.

The 20 anniversary coincides with the National Coastwatch Institution (NCI) marking 25 years since its formation after the closure of a number of coastguard stations around the UK, having since opened 52 watch stations around the UK coast with 13 in Cornwall.

The celebrations will be marked by a visit to Cornwall, during the year, from their patron, The Princess Royal.

St Ives NCI are always looking for new watchkeepers who would like to join them for a few hours a week. No experience is needed, full training is provided and further details and contact information can be found online at www.nci-stives.org