The Duke of Kent officially names the new RNLI lifeboat, RNLB Duke of Edinburgh

His Royal Highness, who has been RNLI President since 1969, officially named the lifeboat during a special ceremony at Wells-next-the-sea lifeboat station.

RNLB Duke of Edinburgh is the third all-weather lifeboat at Wells to be named by a member of the Royal family. The Oakley class lifeboat RNLB Ernest Tom Neathercoat was named by HRH Princess Marina, Duchess of Kent in 1965, and the Mersey class lifeboat RNLB Doris M Mann of Ampthill by HRH Duchess of Kent in July 1990.

Queen Elizabeth II became Patron of the RNLI in 1952, the same year she became Queen. At this time, The Duke of Kent's mother, Princess Marina, was President of the charity, a role which His Royal Highness took over in 1969. Princess Marina had made many visits as President, including a visit in 1948 to meet the Tynemouth Lifeboat Crew and name their new lifeboat the 'Tynesider'.

RNLI Vice President Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence was also present and named the new launch and recovery rig.

Mark Dowie, RNLI Chief Executive said: ‘It’s a great honour, not just for Wells Lifeboat Station but for the RNLI as a whole to name a lifeboat in honour of The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

‘We have included a special feature on the lifeboat’s waterline transom plate in recognition of His Royal Highness’ naval career, installed by His Majesty The King, as Prince of Wales, when he visited the RNLI All-weather Lifeboat Centre in June 2021. (The plate has been specially engraved with a magpie to commemorate HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh’s service as Commanding Officer onboard HMS Magpie).

‘We are delighted our President HRH The Duke of Kent has joined us today. The Duke’s warmth, generosity and understanding of our lifesaving work is incredibly valued by this charity and the time His Royal Highness spends with each volunteer is greatly appreciated by the Institution.’