Cromer RNLI’s new inshore lifeboat named during special ceremony
On Sunday 4 June, Cromer RNLI’s new D class inshore lifeboat D-868 Mr Eric Sharpe (Civil Service 54) was officially named during a special ceremony and service of dedication that took place at the lifeboat station. The lifeboat was named Mr Eric Sharpe. Mr Sharpe left a generous legacy to fund this lifesaving asset.
Richard Annis, Cromer RNLI Lifeboat Management Group Chair welcomed guests and opened the proceedings. During the ceremony Mark Dowie, RNLI Chief Executive, accepted the lifeboat on behalf of the RNLI, and handed it into the care of Cromer Lifeboat Station.
Polly Clarke, RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, accepted the lifeboat on behalf of Cromer Lifeboat Station and following the Service of Dedication, the donor representative of the late Eric Sharpe, officially named the lifeboat.
Reverend William Warren and Reverend Peter Streete lead the service of dedication, with a reading by Danny Cherry, Senior Helmsman.
Mr Eric Sharpe then launched to show its impressive sea capabilities.
Mark Dowie, RNLI Chief Executive said: ‘We have a very special lifesaving heritage here in Cromer, home to the RNLI’s most decorated lifesaver Henry Blogg. It’s wonderful to join our volunteers and staff today for the naming of the latest addition to their fleet, D class lifeboat RNLB Mr Eric Sharpe, the 54th lifeboat to be funded through the generosity of The Lifeboat Fund from a legacy donated by former civil servant Eric Sharpe. This weekend in Norfolk has been truly memorable with two very special events for the RNLI – yesterday in Wells and today here in Cromer.’*
Polly Clarke, RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager at Cromer RNLI, said: ‘I think I speak for everyone gathered here today when I say that this is a very proud moment for Cromer RNLI.
‘Naturally we were very sad to bid farewell to our outgoing lifeboat George and Muriel, but we are also excited to embrace our new D class lifeboat Mr Eric Sharpe.
‘The D class is an amazing lifesaving asset and is the workhorse of our charity’s fleet. It will give our volunteer crew peace of mind every time they launch to know that they are heading out to save lives at sea in such a highly agile and manoeuvrable lifeboat.’