The arrangement between Dorset Police and the RNLI is a first for both organisations. The initiative will utilise the skills and experience of RNLI specialist staff to provide and maintain the boats that will meet the operational policing commitments of the Force.

Based at Poole Quay, the Marine Section has recently opened a second base at Portland, ensuring a highly visible marine police presence at both ends of the county and providing a vital service to Dorsets coastal community.

Highly skilled marine police officers are responsible for attending marine related crimes such as theft and anti-social behaviour on the water and they provide a crucial link between the Force and the marine community.

The team undertake patrols on waterways around the county and are also able to respond to critical incidents such as assisting in the search for missing people.

The boats are being leased from the RNLI, which has worked closely with the Force to ensure the craft are suitably adapted to meet the strict specifications required for police vessels, rather than their original purpose of saving lives at sea.

Dorset Police business project manager Paul Chick said, 'This is a huge benefit to the Force and the marine community. The RNLI is regarded as one of the world leaders in building and maintaining craft and operates to the highest possible standards.

'It will provide us with reliable boats that will be expertly maintained, ensuring we are able to concentrate on what we do best, making Dorset even safer.'

Inspector Alan Ewart of the Dorset Police Marine Section addd, 'We are delighted with the RIBs. To deliver waterborne policing, our highly skilled officers must be equipped with the right craft and equipment, and these boats are a great addition to the section.

'The improved reliability provided by the new boats means that the marine community of Dorset will benefit from an improved police presence on the water. The Marine Section officers on board the new boats will be ready to respond quickly to incidents and will be present up and down the waterways of the county to deter any would be criminals.'

Video footage of the new police boats is available to view at www.dorset.police.uk