Flotilla of RNLI boats mark 200 year anniversary

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) marked its 200th anniversary with a 40 boat flotilla.

The rescue vessels, including both current and historical RNLI lifeboats as well as international boats, came together to form a mile-long parade in Poole.

The spectacle on Sunday brought to a close a weekend of celebratory events in the town where the charity is based.

The festival allowed people to witness demonstrations, displays and talks at the RNLI College.

There were more than 20 historic RNLI lifeboats, the current lifeboat fleet including the most modern 25-knot lifeboat, the Shannon class, alongside current inshore lifeboats and the RNLI inshore rescue hovercraft.

The oldest RNLI vessel taking part at Poole Quay, the rowing lifeboat, the William Riley, went on active service in 1909.

It was credited with saving 35 lives in 1914 during the First World War.

The hospital ship, SS Rohilla, which was carrying wounded soldiers from Dunkirk, was caught in a fierce storm and ran aground.

Although being badly damaged itself in the rescue operation, the lifeboat spent 50 hours at sea.

'It was very special'

International lifeboats were welcomed as part of the two-day event having travelled from France, Netherlands, Germany and Sweden.

The oldest rescue craft taking part was a Swedish rowing lifeboat from 1868.

RNLI Chief Executive Mark Dowie said: "As we commemorate the RNLI’s 200th anniversary this year, it was very special to be able to invite supporters, volunteers, historic lifeboat owners, and international search and rescue partners to this event showcasing our lifesaving work and providing a glimpse behind the scenes.

"The parade of sail was a wonderful spectacle to close the weekend’s festivities and illustrated the remarkable technological developments in lifeboat design since the RNLI was founded in 1824."

The RNLI, founded by Sir William Hillary, has saved 146,277 lives since it began.