RNLI criticised for changing vessels in new fleet strategy

Residents and sea users have voiced concern that their all-weather boat is to be replaced with a smaller inshore model.

- Abigail Neep reports

> The all-weather RNLI Ilfracombe lifeboat The Barry and Peggy High Foundation

(Neil Perrin)

RESIDENTS of a North Devon town are concerned by the RNLI's big change to its local lifeboat fleet.

The RNLI at Ilfracombe is replacing its current Shannon class all-weather boat, "The Barry and Peggy High', in Ilfracombe with a smaller inshore Atlantic 85. The change is part of a wider organisational fleet strategy to be rolled out in 2026/27.

The Atlantic 85 currently sits at Appledore and will be replaced by a D-class inshore lifeboat 'Galaney', and will gain a Shannon class boat to replace their current Tamar class lifeboat.

The RNLI say the Atlantic 85 is "one of the fastest lifeboats in the RNLI fleet and suitable for the types of services the volunteer crew respond to," according to RNLI Ilfracombe.

But residents and sea users are concerned that the change may bring more harm than good as they lose their all weather boat for a smaller rib.

Chris Marriott who lives in Ilfracombe is concerned the Shannon will be unable to save large boats if they were to get into trouble at sea.

"I'm a bit concerned about the leisure boats that come out of Ilfracombe and the big trawler boats. The Atlantic rib would never be able to tow those," said Chris.

"The Princess Yacht, that holds probably 50-100 odd people, if that gets into trouble or has engine failure, who is going to tow that out of danger because it certainly won't be a rib," he adds. "I think it's a big mistake, I hope it doesn't cost lives," said Chris.