New RNLI inshore lifeboat declared on service at St Peter Port

The Elizabeth and Margaret Milligan B-class Atlantic lifeboat joins the all-weather boat in the harbour for a two-year trial period. The volunteer crew of thirteen (including four fully qualified helms) has been training on the boat for the last six months and took part in their final exercise last night before the boat was declared on service this morning.

With a large community of dedicated water users around the island, and the summer season in full swing, the boat is likely to be tasked before too long.

Guernsey RNLI’s volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager, Chris Harvey, said, “The crew members have thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of getting to grips with the new vessel over the past six months and are eager to start using it to its best advantage. Our Severn class all-weather boat, Spirit of Guernsey, is the largest boat in the RNLI fleet and is capable of operating in the worst conditions, but having an Atlantic 85 for manoeuvrability and speed of launch is a tremendous bonus.”

He continued, “The weather has been fantastic for the past few days so as we head towards the weekend, we’d urge everyone on the island to take care in or by the water, and to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard if they see anyone in trouble. Enjoy our wonderful beaches and coastline but always remember to respect the water.”

Media contacts

For more information, or for interview requests, contact Alice Gill, Volunteer Press Office for RNLI St Peter Port on 07872 639303 or [email protected] or Julie Rainey, South East Regional Media Manager, on 07827 358 256 / [email protected] or the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789 or [email protected]

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 142,700 lives.

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