Rock RNLI volunteers officially name their new D class inshore lifeboat.
At a special naming ceremony and service of dedication held on Saturday 4th October, volunteers at Rock RNLI officially named their new D class inshore lifeboat PJS.
The new D class lifeboat arrived at the station on 29th July 2025 and has been funded entirely by the generosity of Mr Peter Sobey of Liskeard. At Mr Sobey's request the lifeboat is named PJS.
The D class lifeboat has been the workhorse of the RNLI for over 50 years. With a top speed of 25 knots, the D class is designed to operate close to shore and in shallow water, making it ideal for difficult rescues close to cliffs, rocks and inside caves.
PJS replaces Rusper II (D-772) which has served Rock lifeboat station since 2015.
Invited guests, volunteer crew, fundraisers and their families braved storm Amy and attended the Station while many members of the public congregated to watch the occasion.
Gus Guest, Chair of the Lifeboat Management Group, welcomed guests and opened the proceedings.
Mr Sobey, handed the lifeboat into the care of the RNLI which was accepted by Mark Dowie, RNLI vice president, who then handed the lifeboat into the care of Rock Lifeboat Station.
Pete Thomas accepted the lifeboat on behalf of Rock lifeboat station.
Proceedings were continued by the Reverend Craig Marshall, with a service of dedication before Mr Sobey was invited to officially name the inshore lifeboat, PJS.
The Hymn 'Eternal Father, Strong to Save' was played by St Minver silver band and those gathered were in fine voice.
A vote of thanks was proposed by Gus Guest, which officially closed the ceremony.
Shortly after, Rock RNLI volunteers Charlie Toogood, Dan Bosley and Matt Marshall took 'PJS' to sea to show the guests and onlookers the new lifeboat’s capabilities.
Tea and refreshments were served in the ILB boathouse .
Pete Thomas, RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager at Rock RNLI 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 must be 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 helped make the day such a success.
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.
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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries
Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.