The familiar orange foul weather clothing worn by RNLI lifeboat crews in recent years will gradually be disappearing, in favour of a new kit in traffic yellow.

The Musto clothing (illustrated right) is based on the company's Ocean design, but incorporates features designed for the special needs of lifeboat crews.

Approved by the RNLI's search and rescue committee, which appointed a special working party to evaluate alternatives to the current protective clothing worn by lifeboatmen, it is expected that the new clothing will be issued to all crew members by the end of next year.

The new gear has undergone independent testing and evaluation by the RAF's Institute of Aviation Medicine, at Farnborough..