Legacy leads to launch of new Arbroath lifeboat

The lifeboat was funded by a legacy from a frequent visitor to Arbroath

A new £322,000 lifeboat has launched in Arbroath thanks to the legacy of a frequent visitor to the Angus town.

The Atlantic 85 lifeboat, called the B-954 June Marshall, replaces a similar vessel from the RNLI's relief fleet that has operated at the station since last year

Arbroath RNLI said June Marshall, who lived in Surrey, visited the station and spoke to the crew every year during her visits.

The Atlantic 85 was introduced to the RNLI fleet in 2005 and has room for four crew members.

The boat proudly carries the name of the woman whose legacy made it possible

The existing Atlantic 85 has completed 27 rescue missions since its launch in Arbroath.

Arbroath RNLI volunteer Michael Marr joined the service 17 years ago and remembered the "love and interest" Ms Marshall had in the town's lifeboat station.

The order of service at her funeral included a photograph of her wearing RNLI branded clothing.

He said: "June was such a keen supporter of the RNLI, and despite living at the opposite end of the country had very close ties to Arbroath.

"It is a fitting privilege to carry June's memory with us as we enter the next chapter here in Arbroath.'

The new lifeboat was lifted into the water by crane this week

The new lifeboat replaces a similar vessel which the Arbroath crew has used since last year