Some of the West's busiest rescue crews have a new weapon in their fight to save lives – and it's all thanks to Western Daily Press readers.

Just nine months after we launched a £60,000 appeal for a new rescue hovercraft to serve the Bristol Channel, the target has been reached.

And the team from the Burnham Area Rescue Boat (Barb) appeal could not be more grateful.

Mark Newman, chairman of Barb, said yesterday : "We are absolutely delighted that our target has been reached in nine months, after a huge amount of fundraising activities.

"In the midst of a recession it is no mean feat. It is a testament to the generosity of Western Daily Press readers and Barb supporters."

Eight years ago, we ran a similar appeal to provide the first rescue hovercraft for the Somerset coast, following the death of five-year-old Lelaina Hall who drowned after becoming trapped in treacherous mud at Berrow, near Burnham-on-Sea.

That hovercraft, named Spirit of Lelaina, is still operating and it is Barb's second, smaller, hovercraft, named Light of Elizabeth after Lelaina's sister, which can now be replaced. It was also purchased with funds raised by our appeal.

The volunteer Barb crews have saved dozens of lives so far, and only three weeks ago plucked nine people to safety in one day.

Lelaina's mother, Caroline Hall, 38, a psychiatric nurse from Worcester, backed the latest appeal and is one of Barb's biggest supporters.

Prince Edward also met the team on a visit to Burnham-on-Sea last year.

The new Italian-designed replacement will be bigger, and even more versatile, than the current training vessel, which is also used in river rescues.

The new craft is the same type used by Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue. It is expected to be in service in about six months' time.

When relieved of her operational role Light of Elizabeth will continue as a training vessel. The charity still relies on donations for maintenance and cheques, payable to Barb, can be sent to Barb, Marine Rescue Centre, The Esplanade, Burnham, TA8 1BB.