DONATIONS have been pouring in for a resort's stricken sea rescue service – and organisers today announced it would launch from this weekend.Felixstowe Volunteer Coast Patrol and Rescue Service has been unable to use its boat so far this tourist season because it has had no money for fuel.

DONATIONS have been pouring in for a resort's stricken sea rescue service - and organisers today announced it would launch from this weekend.

Felixstowe Volunteer Coast Patrol and Rescue Service has been unable to use its boat so far this tourist season because it has had no money for fuel.

But after an appeal in The Evening Star, a number of businesses have responded with sponsorship for petrol.

Chairman John Cresswell said: "The response to the appeal has been overwhelming both with letters of support and promises of donations still coming in. We have even had a donation of £200 from as far away as South Africa.

"However, by far the most important is a donation of several thousand pounds from a businessman, who has a keen interest in community-based activities."

Suffolk-born entrepreneur and hotelier Mike Rockall, originally from Southwold, has pledged to keep the service going throughout the season.

"Thankfully, we are now in a position to begin patrols from this coming weekend. Thank you to everyone who is supporting us and helping to ensure that Felixstowe remains a marine-patrolled resort," said Mr Cresswell.