New Lifeboat Donated to Rock RNLI as Rusper II Retires

Rock RNLI says farewell to Rusper II after 10 years at sea

After a decade of service, Rock RNLI Lifeboat Station is preparing to say goodbye to Rusper II, its long-serving D class lifeboat. Donated by Pam and Anita, Rusper II has been a key part of numerous life-saving missions and emergency responses along the Cornish coast.

The crew at Rock RNLI have expressed their heartfelt thanks to Pam and Anita for their ongoing support over the past 20 years.

Volunteer Helm Charlie Toogood said:

“We’re pleased that Rusper II will continue as a lifesaving asset, as she is due to be repurposed as a boarding boat at Appledore Lifeboat Station. As a crew, we have always done our best to keep the boat in excellent condition.”

📷Rock RNLI Lifeboat Rusper II on its last exercise duty. - Credit: RNLI/Chris Hewitt

A new chapter: D-905 PJS arrives at Rock

In place of Rusper II, Rock RNLI will soon welcome a brand new D class lifeboat: D-905 PJS. The vessel has been kindly donated by Peter Sobey, who visited the station recently and spoke about what inspired his decision to support the RNLI.

“Every day is a good day” is something I often say despite the challenges that we are all often presented with,” Peter said.

“I have often been moved by tragic events in the news but distinctly remember how I felt on hearing about the Penlee lifeboat tragedy in December 1981 when eight crew members lost their lives in a brave and heroic attempt to save lives at sea. I and many members of my community contributed to the disaster fund at the time.

“In recent years, I visited The Lizard Lifeboat Station in west Cornwall and was moved again by the work of the volunteers and the history of the recent and historic rescues. It was after this visit that the idea of a new lifeboat for the RNLI dawned upon me. Nikki called with the exciting news that the RNLI were able to offer me the chance to fund a new D class lifeboat destined for Rock. We feel very much part of the Rock lifeboat family already.”

📷Rock RNLI Lifeboat launch new boat PJS - Credit: RNLI/Chris Hewitt

Support that keeps lifeboats afloat

The station responds to multiple emergency callouts every year, and the crew say the generosity of donors like Pam, Anita and Peter is what makes their work possible.

“Thank you for helping us save lives at sea,” the station shared.

As Rock RNLI prepares to welcome D-905 PJS, the legacy of Rusper II and the spirit of those who have supported the crew over the years will remain firmly anchored in the station’s story.

📷Peter Sobey and Sarah Williams present Rock RNLI with new D Class Boat - PJS - Credit: RNLI/Chris Hewitt