The many attractions will involve not just lifeboat members, but also other emergency services.

Already underway is a window spotting competition involving shops in both Cowes and East Cowes. Would-be participants can download entry forms on the station’s Web site; if they cannot print one out all they need to do is just make a list of the shops and each of their welly numbers.

To qualify for a prize draw the completed forms must be delivered to the station by 2pm on 4 May or emailed by then to [email protected].

The station will be open to the public for guided tours from 10am to 4pm. An area will be set aside especially with children in mind, with attractions including instruction on knot-tying and the chance to colour in RNLI pictures.

Light refreshments will be available, including home-made cakes, and visitors can try their luck at a Yellow Jar stall.

Among games being staged will be ‘Upcycle a Welly’ – in which people are invited to show through pictures or models how they would imaginatively decorate a the RNLI’s iconic welly.

Well-known local disabled yachtswoman, Natasha Lambert, will choose who should get the special prizes.

After being launched at around 11am, the lifeboat will stage a display off The Parade.

Also on The Parade the public will be able to inspect a local fire appliance, hear mobile Coastguards talk about their work, and view an ambulance.

Meanwhile moored on Trinity Landing will be the catamaran belonging to Hampshire’s marine police.

The Island Sailing Club, which adjoins the lifeboat station, will also be supporting the charity through entertainment on the seaward side of their premises by Brighstone Barnacles performing songs about the Island and its history from 12.15pm to 1.15pm.

In addition the RNLI will benefit from a barbecue staged by the club, plus soup and sandwiches at Murray’s Restaurant and ‘All at Sea’ fish lunches at Eegons café.