Yesterday,while in the Poole area, I went to the old Lifeboat Station, to have a look at the preserved "Surf" Class Lifeboat the "Thomas Kirk Wright", in response to a couple of members' and friends request for details of her.This particular boat, not having propellers, but paddlewheels.She is also famed for taking part in the Dunkirk Evacuation,in World War 2,making at least 5 trips to the beaches,and saving hundreds of lives. While at the station I got talking to two of the volunteers who man the museum,who are like many of the people who do this for the RNLI,extremely helpful, and knowledgeable.I was given permission to clamber all over the Lifeboat (and under!) to get the required detail photos,and I have taken around 50,for Mk1 and of course NHP.I was very impressed with the condition of the boat although being double diagonally planked, she is opening up a bit,but in the circumstances she is in a really good state.
I would like to thank publically on here,Husband and wife team,Marge and Brian Traves,who so kindly allowed me to take my photos.
If anyone is ever in the Poole Area,I would strongly suggest they make a visit to this most interesting exhibit.
Sincerely
Mick F
