HAMPSHIRE’S lifeboat stations were among the busiest in the south last year with more than 300 launches.

Of the RNLI’s 43 lifeboat stations in the south east, Calshot was the third busiest with its lifeboat launching 131 times, a rise of 22 since 2007.

Lymington’s lifeboat launched 45 times, while Portsmouth and Hayling Island lifeboats were called out 96 and 77 times respectively.

Michael Vlasto, RNLI Operations Director, said: “Over the past five years our charity has rescued over 47,000 people. Many would have died if it were not for the bravery, skill and training of our volunteer lifeboat crews and lifeguards.”