Trials of the prototype of the Shannon class lifeboat are continuing – and RNLI crews and officials like what they see. RNLI Skegness tweeted: ‘When I say “we like it”, we really like it! Have never heard the word “phenomenal” used so much at sea. Exciting times.’

The boat passed trials of her hull, pulling power and electronics, before heading to Kent in the Summer for trials with her launch and recovery system. She is pictured being intentionally beached for recovery.

The first Shannon is due on station next year. At the time of writing, we’d raised just over £3M of our target £5M towards two relief Shannon class lifeboats and their launch and recovery equipment. Find out more, share with your friends and donate at RNLI.org/newlifeboatappeal.