Sennen Cove RNLI Names New D Class Inshore Lifeboat

Sennen Cove RNLI has officially named its new D class inshore lifeboat Arangy, at a special ceremony held on Saturday 5th July. The event, which took place at the lifeboat station, was attended by volunteers, fundraisers, invited guests, and members of the public who turned out to witness the occasion.

The new lifeboat arrived at the station on 28th November 2024 and has been entirely funded by a legacy left by Geoffrey Bluff, who lived in Illogan Downs. Geoffrey passed away in 2018, leaving half of his residuary estate to Sennen Cove RNLI. His generous gift has not only funded the new D class lifeboat, but also provided additional support towards the running costs of the station.

As requested by Geoffrey, the lifeboat has been named Arangy in memory of his late wife Rita and himself.

Replacing a trusted vessel

Arangy replaces Amy Brown (D763), the previous D class lifeboat that had served Sennen Cove since 2013. The D class lifeboat has been a vital part of RNLI operations for over 50 years, known for its agility and speed. With a top speed of 25 knots, the vessel is designed for rescues close to shore, particularly around cliffs, rocks, and inside caves.

Ceremony and dedication

The naming ceremony was opened by Adrian Semmens, Chair of the Lifeboat Management Group. Steve Butcher, a close friend of Geoffrey Bluff, handed the lifeboat into the care of the RNLI. This was accepted by RNLI Trustee Lord Mark Sedwill GCMG FRCS, who then handed it over to the Sennen Cove Lifeboat Station.

📷Steve Butcher christening D class ILB 'Arangy' - Credit: RNLI/Timothy Steven

Adrian accepted the lifeboat on behalf of the station and passed it into the care of Lifeboat Operations Manager Neil Willis. A service of dedication followed, led by Reverends Harry Burlton and Adam Thomas.

Steve was then invited to officially name the new inshore lifeboat, Arangy. The ceremony was brought to a close with a performance of Phil Coulter's Home from the Sea by St Buryan Male Voice Choir, long-time supporters of the station, and a vote of thanks delivered by Coxswain Nick Hichens.

Taking to the water

After the formalities, Sennen Cove RNLI volunteers Tom Nicholas, Tamsyn Gorvin and George Williams launched Arangy for a demonstration at sea, giving guests and onlookers a first look at the lifeboat's capabilities.

Tea and refreshments were then served in the ILB boathouse.

Neil Willis, RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager, said:

"I think I speak for everyone connected with the station when I say we are very proud to receive this new D class lifeboat which will serve our volunteers extremely well over the next decade. We are extremely grateful to Mr Geoffrey Bluff for his kindness in funding our new lifeboat."

To learn more about the work of the RNLI or to support Sennen Cove Lifeboat Station, visit RNLI.org.