Trial RNLI Atlantic class lifeboat at St Peter Port becomes permanent

An inshore lifeboat has been on trial since 2019 and has proven a valuable asset alongside the station’s Severn class lifeboat, to support the lifesaving coverage around Guernsey.

In the last three years the lifeboat has launched to over 60 incidents, increasing on an annual basis. The inshore lifeboat has comprehensive navigational equipment essential for manoeuvring around the island’s navigational hazards and varying sea states, and enables the station to continue supporting Guernsey, and Sark and Herm.

The news was announced at the station’s annual general meeting last night (Thursday 11 May).

Matt Cridland, RNLI Area Lifesaving Manager, says: ‘Following an extensive trial, we’re delighted that the RNLI Trustees have confirmed that the Atlantic 85 class lifeboat will remain at St Peter Port as a operational lifesaving asset. I’d like to thank all the volunteers at St Peter Port for their enthusiasm, dedication and commitment during this trial process, and look forward to seeing this newly placed asset continue to enhance the RNLI’s lifesaving capabilities around the island.’

The RNLI has also recently invested in relocating the Guernsey RNLI shop, which is now located in St Peter Port harbour, near to the station and the ferry berth. The new shop sells a wide selection of RNLI gifts and souvenirs, from homewares and clothing, to toys and cards. The shop is run exclusively by volunteers and all profits help save lives at sea. All are welcome to visit, and also volunteering opportunities are available – get in touch to find out more.

And in other news, St Peter Port RNLI has also welcomed some new people to the team in the last year. Jason Hobbs took over from Chris Harvey as volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager (LOM), last summer. Chris served the station as LOM since 2019, and retired to dedicate his time to other passions. Jason is a former Commodore of the Guernsey Yacht Club and a keen boater with 16 years of search and rescue experience.

And Jason Norman has taken over as coxswain from Anthony ‘Buz’ White, who retired last summer following an incredible 40 years service. Danny Blake remains as deputy coxswain, together with Dan Masterman and Chris Vaudin taking the station up to four operational coxswain positions for the all-weather lifeboat.

Jason Hobbs said: ‘The first year as lifeboat operations manager has certainly been busy, with lots of new developments both within the operational team and the wider St Peter Port RNLI family. I’d like to thank everyone for their continued support and commitment to the station. Now with two RNLI lifesaving assets we will be looking into this year to expand upon our crew and further develop the skills of our volunteers. As a team we remain strong and forward focused to keeping our waters around the Bailiwick as safe as we possibly can.’

Notes to editors

Attached is an image of the Atlantic 85 lifeboat.

Also attached is a photo L-R of Jason Norman coxswain, Jim Le Pelley, chairman of the Lifeboat Management Group, and Jason Hobbs, LOM, at St Peter Port RNLI

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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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