New arrival for Blyth RNLI

Blyth RNLI's new inshore lifeboat is lowered into the harbour.

The new lifeboat, an Atlantic 85 class inshore boat with a top speed of 35 knots, arrived in the town on Friday morning.

The boat is called Patricia Southall and she will become operational after the crew have finished familiarisation training.

She is replacing the current lifeboat an Atlantic 75 Class, Sure and Steadfast which is the last operational Atlantic in the RNLI's fleet.

First run out for Blyth RNLI's new inshore lifeboat.

Blyth Lifeboat Station's current Atlantic 75 and D class inshore lifeboats will both remain operational throughout the training period and ready for service calls.

Barry Pearson, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Blyth RNLI, said: “It's an exciting time for everyone at Blyth, with the arrival of the new Atlantic 85 and there will be a lot of training taking place by the volunteer crew to ensure we can continue to save lives at sea.

"We hope it won't be too long before we are able to welcome the public to visit the Station.”