SWANAGE RNLI has unveiled a new inshore lifeboat (ILB) – thanks to a generous donation in honour of a dedicated fundraiser.

After 11 years of service, the service’s previous ILB – a small inflatable boat used primarily by lifeguards during rescue – has been retired, with the new vessel funded by a donation from Doreen Norgrove.

Doreen left half her estate to the charity when she passed in August 2019, requesting the boat be named after her late husband Roy, an active fundraiser for the Swanage emergency station, running the RNLI Jewellery Appeal. 

Photo: Swanage Lifeboat Station.

Previous ILBs had been named after Phyl and Jack Cleare, who had supported the charity since 1980. 

Jack passed away suddenly in 2000, but Phyl continued her support and won the RNLI’s 2011 Individual Support of the Year Award, a year before her death. 

The typical operational lifespan of an ILB is around 10 years. 

Photo: Swanage Lifeboat Station.

READ MORE: RNLI rescue boat filling with water in Poole Harbour 

Senior helm at Swanage, Dazzy Tomes, said: “It’s great to have a new ILB. Virtually nothing has changed but there are some small improvements that will make the boat even better.

“We’re going to have an open day at the station in the new year to let people come and have a closer look at the new boat.”
A naming ceremony will be held in 2024. For more on the work of the RNLI, and to make a donation, visit www.nli.org.