Captain Hugh Daglish LVO JP RN DL represented the Lord-Lieutenant recently at the naming of the latest RNLI Lifeboat, the Leonard Pownall, at West Kirby in Wirral. Captain Daglish was honoured to be able to represent the RNLI patron His Majesty The King and spoke about what is needed to face violent seas, as the Lifeboats do; finishing with a salute on behalf of The King to the West Kirby crews’ seamanship and bravery in saving 226 lives and assisting 789 people over their 58 year history.
The lifeboat was actually named by Mrs. Val Daglish, who as the wife of an “old sea dog” was honoured to be asked to officially name the lifeboat.
Val spoke that she was well aware that the RNLI go out in the worst of weather, with great team spirit, big public support, and that she hoped never to need them herself. The Lifeboat was named by Val in traditional fashion with some fizz over her bows; followed by three cheers.
The event was attended by the Mayor of Wirral Cllr Cherry Povall and Mayoress Mrs. Sheila Clarke, the ward Councillors, Chief Executive of RNLI, RNLI Chaplain, West Kirby lifeboat crews, reps from New Brighton and Hoylake boats, families children. It was held on the slipway at the southern end of the marine lake, and supported by West Kirby Sailing Club who provided refreshment before and food afterwards.
The ceremony began with the National Anthem. Speakers were Richard Diamond Operations manager; Michael Sandler, solicitor representing late Mrs Pownall, a major donor; Peter Sparkes, RNLI Chief Executive; Captain Daglish and then Mrs. Daglish. After the naming Rev Paul Rossiter conducted a short service. The lifeboat was then launched into the lake and did a demonstration rescue along with a lifeguard on a jet ski.
