The launching of an appeal for funds for a prototype 47ft fast slipway lifeboat to be named City of London was held at Fishmongers' Hall by the River Thames on the evening of November 25, 1980. Welcoming the guests, Lord Inchcape, chairman of the appeal committee, reminded them that the RNLI had been founded at a meeting in the City of London Tavern in 1824 and, in the speech that followed, Col Sir Ronald Gardner-Thorpe, the Lord Mayor of London and patron of the appeal, pointed out that when, in 1824, the RNLI had taken over, 25 of the existing 39 lifeboats had in fact been operated by Lloyds.

The appeal is for £750,000, not only to help fund the building of the first fast slipway lifeboat and the extensive operational trials necessary for the prototype of what is a new and revolutionary lifeboat design, but also to helpprovide for her future maintenance.

Already substantial support has been promised, but the appeal will run for five years and contributors are reminded that the most effective way of responding is by deed of covenant. All enquiries or donations should be sent to the secretary of the City of London lifeboat appeal, Beaufort House, St Botolph Street, London EC3A 7DX..