HUNDREDS of people turned out on Saturday morning to watch the official naming of the RNLI's new lifeboat.

The volunteer team based in Swanage hosted a formal ceremony and service of dedication for the Shannon class lifeboat, George Thomas Lacy.

The event also marked the opening of the charity's new boathouse following a community appeal that raised £465,000.

Peter Foster, the chair of the Swanage Lifeboat Management Group, welcomed guests before John Whybarrow, RNLI National Council member and patron of the Swanage Lifeboat Station Appeal officially opened the boathouse.

The Shannon class lifeboat arrived at the station in April 2016.

It was funded by a number of group and individual donations and legacies, the largest of which was given by George Lacy.

Mr Lacy, who lived in Dorset, died at the age of 94. It was his wish that part of his estate should go to the RNLI to be used by crews protecting the Dorset coastline.

In preparation for the lifeboat, the Swanage station had to be completely rebuilt. The new station houses state-of-the-art facilities for crew members, as well as areas for training and education.

The station became operational earlier this year.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Foster said benefactors like Mr Lacy are "very important" to the RNLI.

"Our magnificent fundraising efforts here in Swanage, with the help of our local branches, raised £465,000 towards the cost of the new station," he said.

"On behalf of all the volunteers at the station I am truly thankful."

Mr Whybarrow said the new station is the first to be designed specifically for the Shannon lifeboat.

"The boathouse has excellent accommodation for the crew but also houses the inshore D-class lifeboat, Phyl and Jack, which was first brought on service in 2012," he said.

"This is a lifeboat station which all involved can be proud of.

"It has been made a reality because of the generosity our supporters, donors, fundraisers and station volunteers - and also our neighbours who have shown patience and understanding during the period of construction.

"I would like to congratulate and thank everyone involved.

"It is your kindness, and for some your courage, which makes a difference to so many people."

A service of dedication was then conducted by the Reverend Tony Higgins, before Heather Booy, Mr Lacy’s relative, officially named the lifeboat. The lifeboat was then launched.

Mr Foster said: "Today has been an illustration of the RNLI community spirit and an opportunity for us to truly celebrate all we have achieved here at Swanage RNLI, surrounded by all those people who have supported us."