A beautiful day broke the pattern of continuous rain on 19 October for the 250 people attending the naming ceremony of Rye Harbour's new lifeboat and boathouse.

The new Atlantic 75 lifeboat (pictured right), Commander and Mrs Rodney Wells funded by the estate of Mrs Eva Wells, was handed over to the station by Mr Wells' nephew.

The residue of the estate has contributed towards the building costs of the new boathouse together with other legacies and general funds.

The boathouse was officially opened and the lifeboat named by Mrs Eve Robus, widow of the station's late senior helmsman, Keith who died suddenly in 1995.

The day was enjoyed by all and after watching the lifeboat give a demonstration launch, guests were invited for refreshments..