RNLI boat named Hereford Endeavour after volunteers

The boat is the most advanced inshore rescue vessel produced by the RNLI

A new RNLI lifeboat is being named the Hereford Endeavour after volunteers at the Leominster branch helped raise the money to buy it.

The Atlantic 85 boat is the most advanced inshore rescue vessel ever produced by the charity.

"The volunteers from Leominster have been a key part," said Aubrey Diggle, RNLI Lifeboat operations manager.

A naming ceremony at 1400 GMT will be the first official engagement for Prince William and Kate Middleton.

Leominster volunteers

According to the RNLI, boats like the Hereford Endeavour cost in the region of £160,000.

Some of the volunteers from Herefordshire who helped with fund-raising are going to the ceremony and will be meeting the royal couple.

"The volunteers from Leominster have been a key part - without their huge efforts in getting all this money together we just wouldn't be where we are," said Mr Diggle. "Their visit is very fitting, it's a great boost to the station."