THEY save the lives of dozens of people every year.

But now emergency services will be testing out their skills against each other as they do battle on the water.

Teams from Hamble Lifeboat, Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service, Hampshire Police and South Central Ambulance Service will take part in the third annual raft race on the Hamble River on New Year’s Day

Hundreds expected to watch the crews compete in four identical rafts in a race to and from the slipway in front of the Hamble Lifeboat Station.

Organiser and lifeboat crew member Paul Ackland said: “ Given the fact that we are an independent lifeboat, we wanted to create some awareness locally that we are here and have been here for almost 50 years. I then started to chat with the local fire crew about a charity race and the idea was born!

“It’s a great opportunity to bring the community together and it’s all about raising awareness and let Hamble residents know that we are on hand if they need help.”

Mr Ackland said almost 400 people attended last year and he is hoping for a similar turnout tomorrow

“The rafts look great and if the turnout is anything like last year it will be a great morning along with the Fire Engine, Coastguard Helicopter Rescue 175 and Ambulance. It’s a great way to start the New Year and celebrate it with the community.”

The race will begin at 11.30am.

The winner will receive the Roger Harding Memorial Trophy named in honour of a former chairman of Hamble Lifeboat for 20 years, who died in 2016.