The RNLI waved goodbye to the last Brede class lifeboat remaining in service when it left Calshot lifeboat station

The lifeboat, was replaced by the Arun class all-weather lifeboat Margaret Russell Fraser.

Brede class lifeboats had been part of the RNLI fleet since 1982 with 11 built in total. It is likely that this last Brede will be sold to a sea rescue organisation abroad. Previously, Brede class lifeboats have been sold to The Netherlands, New Zealand and South Africa.

The Brede, an intermediate lifeboat, is restricted to operating in conditions up to Gale Force 8, whereas the all-weather Arun has no launching limitation.

During 2001 Calshot’s Brede class lifeboat launched 53 times and the relocation of the Arun class lifeboat, which was built in 1986 and previously served in the RNLI’s relief fleet, will improve lifeboat cover in the busy Solent area.