Karl Love, the independent county councillor for East Cowes, has described the move as “unbelievable, uncaring and totally out of step”.

Cowes is set for a spectacular festive treat as Santa swaps his sleigh for a lifeboat.

Cowes and Yarmouth RNLI crews were called into action on Saturday after a 37ft yacht ran aground near Thorness Bay.

The Isle of Wight’s rich maritime heritage took centre stage this week as the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) held its latest board meeting in East Cowes.

It was a busy first weekend of September for Cowes RNLI, with volunteer crews called out twice in just three days.