The prototype lifeboat will be named on Friday 30th August at the RNLI depot in Poole

Being christened ‘Metcat’ this will be the formal launch of the IB1 class inshore craft. An improved model of the D-class lifeboat, it is 16 feet long with a 50 hp outboard making it capable of doing 25 knots. The naming ceremony begins 1130am at West Quay Road in Poole. The RNLI are aiming to produce up to 30 IB1’s a year for a five year period.