RNLI vessel credited with saving 40 lives joins maritime museum collection
A HISTORIC lifeboat that helped save dozens of lives at sea has been given a permanent home in Pembroke Dock.
The RNLB Pentland, a 1957 Watson-class lifeboat, has been formally handed over to the West Wales Maritime Heritage Society and will now be displayed at the West Wales Maritime Museum.
The vessel arrived at its new berth at Hancock’s Yard on Front Street, where a handover ceremony was held on Saturday, March 7.
The lifeboat was gifted to the museum by former Royal Navy serviceman Rev Mike Brotherton MBE, who had owned and cared for the vessel for many years.
During the ceremony, the Blue Ensign previously flown under Mr Brotherton’s command was lowered and replaced with the Red Ensign, symbolising the museum’s new role as the vessel’s permanent custodian.
Lifeboat with a life-saving legacy
During more than three decades of service with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, the Pentland was credited with saving 40 lives.
The lifeboat served at stations in Thurso, The Mumbles and Workington during its operational career. While stationed in Thurso it was involved in rescues that saved 15 lives. A further 21 lives were saved during its time at The Mumbles, and four more were saved while the vessel served at Workington.
A spokesperson for the West Wales Maritime Heritage Society said the vessel represents an important piece of Britain’s maritime history.
“We are honoured to become the permanent custodians of the Pentland,” they said.
“This vessel is not just a piece of maritime engineering; it is a symbol of bravery that has touched many lives across the UK. Bringing her to Pembroke Dock ensures her history remains accessible to the public for generations to come.”
New attraction at historic yard
The Pentland now joins the museum’s growing collection of historic vessels and maritime projects, including the Charterhouse lifeboat restoration and the replica Tenby Lugger Heritage.
Hancock’s Yard itself has strong links to Pembroke Dock’s maritime past, with shipbuilding activity on the site dating back to 1824.
Visitors can now see the lifeboat on display as part of the museum’s efforts to preserve and share the area’s proud naval and shipbuilding heritage.
The museum is run entirely by volunteers and offers free entry, with guided tours available.
The West Wales Maritime Museum is located at Hancock’s Yard, Front Street, Pembroke Dock, and is typically open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm, although seasonal closures may apply.
