Tenby RNLI?have unveiled its new state-of-the-art inshore lifeboat - equipped with a GPS navigation system, night vision cameras and many other features!

On Tuesday October 19, Tenby RNLI said goodbye to their current inshore lifeboat, Georgina Taylor.

The lifeboat, which has launched nearly 400 times, saving many lives during 11 years on station, was purchased by Mrs. Georgina Taylor, who also funded the previous two boats, the last of which, she left in her will.

The new lifeboat will be named Kathleen Ann after generous legacies from Kathleen Ann Pearson and Mrs Ann Myfanwy Johns.

Subject to Covid-19 restrictions, there will be a special naming ceremony and dedication for the Kathleen Ann to be held in Tenby in the New Year. 

The D-class lifeboat has been the workhorse of the RNLI fleet for over 50 years.

It is small, approximately five metres long, but highly manoeuvrable. Compared with her predecessor, the new lifeboat’s features include a more powerful electric start engine, giving improved performance and a higher top speed of 25 knots.

It is equipped with a GPS navigation system, VHF radio and many other features including night vision cameras.

The three-man crew are trained in righting the lifeboat in the event of a capsize and the engine is inversion proof to give easy starting in the event of a capsize.

Phil Rees, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Tenby said: “The arrival of a new lifeboat marks an exciting milestone in the history of our station.

“Our volunteer crew are ready to launch 24/7 when someone is in trouble and the generous legacies of Mrs. Pearson and Mrs. John’s means we are able to do this using the most up to date equipment.

“The RNLI relies on public donations and legacy funding like this, it will make a huge difference to our life saving capability.”