Rock RNLI Officially Names New D Class Lifeboat PJS

Volunteers, fundraisers and supporters gathered at Rock RNLI on Saturday 4th October to officially name the station’s new D class inshore lifeboat, PJS, during a special ceremony and service of dedication.

A Lifeboat Funded by Generosity

The new D class lifeboat arrived at the station on 29th July 2025 and has been funded entirely by the generosity of Peter Sobey of Liskeard. At Peter’s request, the lifeboat has been named PJS.

The D class has been a cornerstone of the RNLI fleet for more than 50 years. With a top speed of 25 knots, the inflatable lifeboat is designed for close-to-shore rescues and operations in shallow waters, including caves and rocky coastlines.

PJS replaces Rusper II (D-772), which has served the Rock station since 2015.

📷Mark Dowie places the new D class lifeboat 'PJS' in the care of Rock Lifeboat Station and Pete Thomas, Volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager. - Credit: RNLI/Chris Hewitt

Ceremony Despite Storm Amy

Despite the challenging weather conditions brought by Storm Amy, invited guests, volunteer crew, fundraisers and their families attended the event at the station, while members of the public gathered to watch from the shore.

Gus Guest, Chair of the Lifeboat Management Group, opened the proceedings and welcomed attendees.

Peter formally handed the new lifeboat into the care of the RNLI, which was accepted by Mark Dowie, RNLI Vice President. Mark then handed the lifeboat into the care of Rock Lifeboat Station, where it was accepted by Pete Thomas on behalf of the crew.

The service of dedication was led by Reverend Craig Marshall, followed by Peter officially naming the inshore lifeboat PJS. The hymn ‘Eternal Father, Strong to Save’ was performed by St Minver Silver Band as those gathered joined in song.

A vote of thanks from Gus officially brought the ceremony to a close.

📷Volunteer crew Charlie Toogood, Matt Marshall and Dan Bosley showing the D Class capabilities after the naming ceremony. - Credit: RNLI/Chris Hewitt

Lifeboat Demonstration and Thanks

Following the formalities, Rock RNLI volunteers Charlie Toogood, Dan Bosley and Matt Marshall launched PJS to demonstrate its capabilities to guests and onlookers. Tea and refreshments were then served in the ILB boathouse.

Pete said:

‘It goes without saying, all of the crew at Rock Lifeboat Station are extremely grateful to Peter for his incredible donation, enabling us to continue to save lives at sea.’

Additional thanks were extended to Coastal Canvas Ltd, St Minver Silver Band, Cornwall Conveniences, Daley Morrish, Malcolm Barnecutts Bakery, St Moritz Hotel, Pityme Inn and all the volunteers who contributed to making the day a success.

📷Peter Sobey hands the new D class lifeboat 'PJS' to Mark Dowie, RNLI vice president. - Credit: RNLI/Chris Hewitt