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'Metcat' Heralds RNLI's IB1 Era
01 Sep 2002
The first prototype of the RNLI's new class of inshore lifeboat was named Metcat in a ceremony at the RNLI Depot in Poole last month. The IB1 is a new and improved version of the popular D class lifeboat.
Funding for the lifeboat has come from the catering branch of the Metropolitan Police, in memory of colleague Paul Brown's wife. The D class lifeboat Deborah Brown has already been provided for Ilfracombe lifeboat station in Devon by Mr Brown's appeal.
Another four pre-production IB1s, based on the Metcat and assembled of components from many sources, have been built at the RNLI's Inshore Lifeboat Centre at Cowes on the Isle of Wight. The five prototype vessels will be trialled at RNLI stations around the UK coast.
The IB1 is a 5m long craft of all inflatable construction with a composite deck on top and a fabric floor. There is also a composite-built equipment storage in the bow and a composite transom to take the 50hp outboard engine.
MJ Information No: 17435
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