WEYMOUTH Lifeboat Station welcomed a special guest visitor on Saturday, September 18, in one of its major donors.

Clive Millward was originally meant to visit the station on the same day for the opening ceremony of the new Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat – which he had donated significant funds to house.

However, the occasion was delayed and with the date in his diary already Mr Millward decided to still come down to Dorset and meet the team.

“The crew and volunteers were delighted to, at long last, welcome Clive Millward to Weymouth Station,” Chrissie Payne, Lifeboat management group chair, said.

“Clive, who is a regular RNLI donor, was given a thank you tour of the station and the lifeboats, and an opportunity to meet with several crew.”

Dorset Echo: Clive Millward visiting the RNLI lifeboat boathouse in Weymouth, credit RNLI

On his visit Mr Millward still managed to see the extension of the inshore lifeboat boathouse he helped pay for.

Several years ago it was decided that Weymouth would have a new inshore lifeboat, but it brought up some difficulty in that a new vessel would not fit in the old boathouse.

Many options were considered in a consultation, but the town council and harbourmaster came to the conclusion that a one metre extension would be enough to house a new boat.

Upon hearing this Mr Millward, who has been an RNLI supporter for many years, decided he would donate money to the charity to help pay for the extension.

The original opening ceremony was planned for September 18, but that has been postponed until the spring due to several reasons the RNLI has said.

Dorset Echo: Clive Millward visiting the RNLI lifeboat boathouse in Weymouth, credit RNLI

Mr Millward came to the station anyway, accompanied by two friends, to meet several crew members and for a guided tour around Ernest and Mabel, the station's all-weather lifeboat.

As well as being shown around the new Atlantic 85 boat, named Jack and Phyl Cleare, in her new extended lifeboat house.

The Atlantic 85 lifeboat, which replaced the previous 75 model, has improved sea handling capabilities and offers an additional seat for the crew.

Ms Payne added: “Whilst adhering to our Covid-19 restrictions, we were able to show Clive the importance of Weymouth Lifeboat Station, and to express our appreciation for his continued support.”