The proud crew on the new lifeboat

HUNDREDS of Islanders took part in a service of dedication at the Albert Pier on Saturday as the new St Helier lifeboat was officially named.

Crew members of the £2.7 million Tamar Class vessel stood proudly on the deck as she was named after the late Major George Sullivan, a benefactor who was awarded the Military Cross for gallantry when serving with the 14th/20th Hussars.

Born in Ireland, Mjr Sullivan lived in the Island since the 1950s and was a life-long charity supporter. He died in 2005.

Taking part in the ceremony on his behalf were trustees Peter Wells, who officially handed over the lifeboat to RNLI operations director Michael Vlasto, and Tim Cartwright, who named the vessel George Sullivan.

Appeal chairman Jurat Roy Bullen opened the ceremony in front of invited guests
and colleagues from the lifeboats from St Catherine, St Malo, Gouray, St Peter Port and the south of England, as well as the French coastguard service Cross Jerbourg.

• Pictures: Peter Mourant

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