Invergordon's new 'memory' lifeboat a step closer Easter Ross home; New RNLI lifeboat for Invergordon set for sea trials

A NORTH lifeboat took a step closer to her home this week when she was moved out of dry dock and was prepared for water trials.

The RNLI Invergordon lifeboat, named in memory of its benefactor Agnes AP Barr, will have an extra special place in the hearts of thousands of locals.

9500 friends and families of the Invergordon rescue boat gifted money to the RNLI to have their loved ones names printed on the boat, as part of a Launch a Memory campaign.

Their names will feature on either side of the boat near to the registration's number.

Michael MacDonald, who is the volunteer press and publicity officer at RNLI Invergordon, said: "This marks the next stage in the boat's journey to Invergordon. She will now go through vigorous testing on the water at Poole.

"She will then make her way up to Invergordon where all being well we will have her in the water by June."

Mr MacDonald said the boat was the new Shannon-type boat being used across the RNLI.

The Shannon is the latest class of all-weather lifeboat to join the RNLI fleet. She’s the first modern all-weather lifeboat to be propelled by water jets instead of traditional propellers, making her the most agile and manoeuvrable all-weather lifeboat in the fleet.

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