Thanks to Alan and Suzanne for this report from last night’s events at Cowes Lifeboat Station. Ed
Last night, Cowes RNLI Lifeboat Station welcomed its brand new inshore rescue vessel, Sheena Louise, which was funded by the Pollock family.
At 6.30pm the relief craft Tabby Cat slid down the slipway for the very last time. On this occasion she was helmed by Richard O’Callaghan, one of the station’s sixteen volunteer crew members.
Four crew members are on duty for any shout, although the vessel can operate with a minimum of three on board.
Vessels were blessed
Canon Richard Emblin blessed both vessels. Then, escorted by the Arun Class all-weather lifeboat from Calshot, Sheena Louise was welcomed to her new home by crew, helpers and supporters.
She was helmed, appropriately, by Scott Armiger who works in the RNLI East Cowes depot where she was constructed. Sheena Louise is the prototype of a series of vessels that will be produced in East Cowes.
Sheena Louise will be based in Watchbell House adjacent to the Island Sailing Club. Between 1671 and 2009 the building housed the HM Customs House.
Headed by actress Celia Imrie, the £1million appeal fund will continue until the end of 2012.
