Happisburgh to lose one of its lifeboats due to coastal erosion
Happisburgh’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat is set to be removed - as its becoming too difficult to launch
Happisburgh is set to the lose one of its lifeboats with the RNLI confirming coastal erosion has made it too difficult to launch.
It says it made the decision after 'an evidence based process' with the proposals approved by its trustees.
The Atlantic 85 inshore boat is set to be removed, while a smaller D class vessel will remain in place.
A lifeboat further down the coast at Aldeburgh is also set to be retired.
Amber French, the charity’s Area Lifesaving Manager, said: "So the RNLI undertook a joint lifesaving effect review with our volunteers, staff and wider lifeboat station community in both areas.
"We are very grateful for their insight and cooperation, which helped us reach the decisions on the correct lifeboat configuration for this stretch of water.
"As sea use around the coast changes, we must ensure that we have the most appropriate lifeboats in place which will save the greatest number of lives in the most effective way.
"The RNLI is funded by the generosity of the public and has been for almost 200 years. We have a responsibility to provide the right lifesaving service for residents, visitors and those who use the water, while ensuring donations to our charity are spent as wisely and appropriately as possible."
Rachael Kirkham, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Happisburgh RNLI, said: "It is sad to see the Howard Bell Atlantic 85 leave the station."
"We have had difficulties with the beach for a number of years but our fantastic volunteers have worked hard to maintain the service at Happisburgh.
"We have a strong team at Happisburgh and will work hard to carry on saving lives at sea with Russell Pickering our D Class Lifeboat.
"Anyone interested in joining our team please contact the station at happisburgh@rnli.org.uk or visit the station on Tuesday evening or Sunday morning and meet our great team."