POOLE Lifeboat Station crew are now the proud owners of a special RNLI ceremonial flag – which is one of only two in the country.

The crew were presented with the flag by Poole-based construction company Morgan Sindall.

The firm’s senior project manager, Chris Holloway, is a volunteer deputy launching authority and lifeboat sea safety officer at Poole Lifeboat Station.

The special flag is used during ceremonies including the town’s Armistice Day parade and Service of the Sea.

The only other royal ceremonial standard, which is kept at the charity’s headquarters, is used for special occasions around the country and shared with other stations.

Chris said: “I’ve been a volunteer at RNLI Poole for more than 12 years, and I knew how much having the standard meant to the staff and crew.

“The Poole station is one of the busiest in the country in part due to the high number of yachts and motorboats in the area.

“As a lifelong sailor, I understand the importance of the lifeboat station and the vital work the crew does.”

Jonathan Clark, volunteer coxswain at Poole RNLI Lifeboat Station, said: “Poole is the home of the RNLI and it is fitting that the station should have its own RNLI standard.

“The lifeboat station is a large part of the town’s heritage and having the standard will make us walk a bit taller during the local events that the crew are invited to take part in.

“We are extremely grateful to Chris and Morgan Sindall for donating the flag to the station and we looking forward to carrying on the next parade.”

Poole Lifeboat Station has been serving the Poole harbour area for over 145 years.

It is currently run by more than 30 volunteer crew manning an inshore lifeboat and an all-weather lifeboat.