New Charity Established to Preserve Historic RNLI Lifeboat in Cornwall

A new charity is being formed to preserve one of Britain’s most celebrated lifeboats, the Sarah Townsend Porritt (ON886), which first launched in 1951.

The organisation, which has been operating as Saving Our Sarah CIC since May 2022, is now completing its conversion into a registered charity, to be named The Sarah Townsend Porritt Maritime Trust.

Honouring a Lifesaving Legacy

Sarah, a 46ft 9in Watson-class RNLI lifeboat, served with distinction at Lytham St Annes in Lancashire for 27 years. During her service, her volunteer crews launched 95 times, saved 43 lives, and received two RNLI Bronze Medals for Gallantry.

The Sarah Townsend Porritt is also officially listed on the National Register of Historic Vessels, recognising her national significance as part of Britain’s maritime heritage.

The newly forming charity aims to not only preserve Sarah as a historic vessel but also to make her the centrepiece of a new community and educational hub in Falmouth.

Founder Chris Freer explained the project’s purpose:

“Our goal is to honour her incredible past by giving her a new life of service on shore.”

A Vision Built on Three Pillars

The long-term mission of The Sarah Townsend Porritt Maritime Trust rests on three key elements:

• The Educational Hub: Providing apprenticeships in traditional boatbuilding skills.

• The Community & Wellbeing Hub: Running a ‘Calm Waters’ programme to support local mental health.

• The Restoration Workshop: Serving as the home for Sarah’s ongoing preservation.

The charity’s official mission statement outlines its broader purpose:

“To preserve the historic lifeboat, Sarah Townsend Porritt, a unique piece of our national maritime heritage, creating a sustainable community asset that inspires respect for the sea and transfers traditional skills to generations to come.”

Looking Ahead to 2026

As the 75th anniversary of the Sarah Townsend Porritt approaches in 2026, the trust plans to mark the milestone with a major community celebration.

The project has already received strong support from local political figures and respected maritime experts, adding momentum to what could become one of Cornwall’s most inspiring preservation efforts.

For more about Saving Our Sarah CIC and its journey toward becoming The Sarah Townsend Porritt Maritime Trust, visit Saving Our Sarah