THE first national tribute to mark the bravery of volunteer lifeboat crews lost at sea is being planned in Poole.

The sculpture would commemorate around 700 RNLI crew members who have died while going to the aid of others since 1824.

It was chosen after a national competition and, if planning permission is approved, will stand outside the national headquarters at the corner of West Quay Road and Slip Way.

It would be made from bands of stainless steel, with the names of those being celebrated inscribed on the sea section.

"This inspirational and striking sculpture encapsulates the very essence of the RNLI, saving lives around our islands," said Philip Gilbert, project chairman.

Sam Holland's work, which would feature a twice life-size figure, was chosen from 64 entries by a panel representing all sections of the RNLI and is expected to cost around £200,000.

Staff and volunteers have been hard at work raising money with sponsored events and the fund now stands at £110,000.

Kick-starting the appeal was chief executive Andrew Freemantle, who last year cycled 1,000 miles from Poole to Rome and collected £56,000.

Many lifeboat stations have their own memorials to lost crews and local disasters but apart from a site at the National Arboretum in Staffordshire, there is no dedicated RNLI tribute.

"Ultimately the memorial will remind the nation that there are still people who volunteer to carry out selfless acts of heroism to help others, and that we need to honour and remember them to inspire future generations," said Michael Vlasto, operations director.

It is hoped the tribute will sit in a memorial garden opposite The Lifeboat College, hopefully by next summer or autumn.

l The RNLI Heritage Trust is managing the funding and donations can be made at rnli.org.uk/ memorial or by sending a cheque marked Memorial to RNLI HQ, West Quay Road, Poole BH15 1HZ.