A new D class inshore lifeboat has been officially named at Exmouth Lifeboat Station in Devon.
RNLI 911 – Challenge was unveiled on Saturday, the 21st of February, funded by a £130,000 coastal fundraising drive led by Belinda and James Richardson.
The couple undertook a road trip around the entire coast of the UK and Ireland in a Porsche 911 to mark the RNLI’s 200th anniversary in 2024. They began in Morecambe, Lancashire, on 23 August 2024 and finished in Peel, Isle of Man, exactly 911 hours later, as reported by Afloat here. They originally aimed to raise £110,000. The final total exceeded £130,000.
The funds paid for the new D-class lifeboat, the training and kit for three volunteer crew members, and the remaining funds were allocated to maintenance. Reflecting on the journey, James Richardson said, “We were amazed by the giving mindset of everyone. Meeting the people involved, at any level within the RNLI, was wonderful.”
Jayne George, RNLI Chief Fundraising and Communications Officer, said, “It is a privilege to name this D-class inshore lifeboat in recognition of their monumental efforts." “RNLI 911 – Challenge will go on to help fulfil our mission of saving lives at sea.”
The D class lifeboat, first introduced in 1963, is designed for rescues close to shore, particularly in surf and shallow water. RNLI 911 – Challenge joins the charity’s relief fleet. Relief lifeboats support stations when their primary vessel is unavailable.
In 2024, RNLI relief lifeboats launched 717 times and assisted 730 people. More than 50 friends and supporters attended the ceremony, alongside RNLI volunteers and staff.
RNLI Vice President Mark Dowie opened proceedings. Reverend Steve Jones led the Service of Dedication. The Sea Shanty Men performed during the ceremony. Belinda Richardson said, “It’s so lovely to have something tangible come out of the fundraising. “They know that they’ve been part of creating something that will save a life.”
A demonstration launch by a volunteer crew followed the naming ceremony.
