RNLI unveils artwork to mark 200th anniversary

The piece is comprised of 200 separate squares which were each painted by a student aged eight to 16

A new artwork is being unveiled in Devon to mark the 200th anniversary of the RNLI.

Students from local schools have created a collage based on a photo of Torbay RNLI station's Severn Class all-weather lifeboat.

The work is to be permanently displayed in front of the RNLI building at Kings Quay, Brixham.

Nigel Millard, who took the original photo, said the finished product was a "stunning piece of artwork".

Each acrylic square will join together to form a collage of Mr Millard's photograph

He said: “It shows off the creative energy of our students and symbolises the support our RNLI station receives from so many people right across the community."

The piece, titled The 200 Year Art Challenge, is comprised of 200 separate squares, which were each painted by a student aged eight to 16.

Each acrylic square will join together to form a collage of Mr Millard's photograph measuring 2m (6ft) by 1m (3ft).

Andrew Medley, Torbay lifeboat’s coxswain, will formally unveil the piece at 10:30 BST to an audience of local dignitaries, supporters and representatives.

The unveiling is timed to coincide with high water, so the all-weather lifeboat can moor up exactly where it was as depicted in the collage.

Mr Millard said: "We are hoping for a good turnout at the unveiling, as it’s an important event in this year’s calendar to mark the RNLI’s 200th anniversary."