A FUNDRAISING appeal for a new boat for Penarth RNLI has raised more than 10 per cent of its target just a week after its official launch.

Local olympic sailor Hannah Mills helped the RNLI launch the £52,000 appeal on Thursday, July 21.

And since the launch, more than £5,600 has been donated towards an appeal for one of the busiest lifeboat stations in Wales.

Hannah Mills, 28, who is originally from Dinas Powys, joined members of Penarth RNLI at the launch day.

The money will pay for a new D-Class inshore lifeboat which would replace the existing boat in 2018.

It is hoped the new boat will help the crew save lives for years into the future.

The current D692 Connie Daines has operated in Penarth since 2008 and has launched on 225 calls, rescuing 332 people and saving the lives of seven.

In 2015, Penarth Lifeboat Station rescued more people than any other in Wales.

The RNLI is almost entirely funded by contributions from its supporters.

Ms Mills won a silver medal at the 2012 games in London and set off for Rio de Janeiro on Sunday (July 24).

She said: "I feel really passionately about people being safe in the water.

"If we can get the lifeboat crew the best equipment then more lives can be saved.

"I know these waters well as I grew up around here and I know how dangerous they can be.

"There is an amazing community spirit here and everyone is so passionate about the lifeboats.

"I am honoured to be asked to come down as the work the crew does here is inspirational."

Lifeboat operations manager, Jason Dunlop, said they are appealing to the community to help them raise the funds.

He said: "We know the town appreciates what our boats do.

"Our volunteer crews can be called out 24 hours-a-day, 365 days-a-year to help save lives at sea.

"The unique thing about lifeboats is that they are donated by the community itself.

"We cherish the bond we have with that community as most of us live here and are part of it."

Penarth RNLI are planning to hold various fundraising events and are encouraging others to do the same to help meet the target.

To donate to the appeal, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/penarthlifeboatappeal1.