Emotional Farewell as Lifeboat ‘Diamond Jubilee’ Makes Final Voyage
The town turned out to bid a heartfelt goodbye to the RNLI’s Tamar class All-weather lifeboat, ‘Diamond Jubilee’, as it sailed through Sovereign Harbour’s locks for the last time today. This trusty vessel, crewed by dedicated volunteers, has been a beacon of safety and resilience for years.
‘Diamond Jubilee’ Escorts Its Successor Through the Locks
The farewell was marked by a poignant handover moment. ‘Diamond Jubilee’ was escorted through the locks by its new successor, the sleek Trent Class lifeboat, ‘Henry Heys Duckworth’, signalling a fresh chapter in sea rescue.
Tribute from Fellow Lifeboats in Inner Harbour
Outside the locks, a touching tribute awaited. Eastbourne’s D Class lifeboat, alongside Newhaven’s mighty Severn class, stood proudly in the inner harbour. Together, they saluted and gave a heartfelt send-off to the retiring ‘Diamond Jubilee’, marking the end of an era for the lifeboat community.
