The new lifeboat is one of the RNLI’s D-Class inshore lifeboats. ..
The highly manoeuvrable craft, able to perform rescues in shallow waters and close to harbour walls and rocks. This enables the volunteer crew to provide lifesaving assistance in areas where the larger all-weather lifeboat is unable to access.
The new lifeboat is funded using money left in the Will of Mr Ernest George Wellings, a supporter and pledger to the RNLI who passed away in March 2017.
Mr Wellings lived in Grantham but was originally from Worthing and he left a share of his residual estate for the provision of a lifeboat.
In recognition of this generous legacy, the new inshore lifeboat D-852 will be officially named the Ernie Wellings. A Station Naming Ceremony will take place at some point in the future, when coronavirus restrictions allow a fitting ceremony to be held.
RNLI Station Mechanic, Chris Brompton described how crucial the new lifeboat will be to Bridlington: ‘Our inshore lifeboat is a key part of our operation here at Bridlington, we launched the D-Class lifeboat a total of 16 times in 2020 and we’re very grateful to have a new one to ensure we can continue to provide this lifesaving coverage. Our volunteer crew would like to extend their thanks to the family of Mr Wellings for this gift in his Will.’
Bridlington’s former inshore lifeboat, the Windsor Spirit, has served the RNLI for over ten years and is now likely to be used as a part of the RNLI’s reserve fleet, or be used in training exercises at the RNLI College in Poole.
The RNLI can only continue to save lives at sea thanks to donations from the public. If you’d like to learn more about how leaving money in your Will can help the charity, please visit https://rnli.org/support-us/give-money/leave-a-gift-in-your-will.
