THE Princess Royal will visit the New Forest next month to officially name a new boat which will give disabled people the chance to get out on the water.

The naming of Lymington SailAbility’s new accessible Wheelyboat will take place at Pebble Beach restaurant in Barton on Sea on Friday, May 11.

Since it was founded in 1996, Lymington SailAbility has helped change lives by introducing a huge number of people to sailing and powerboating.

The charity is completely self-funded and relies on the generosity of others.

It operates twice a week with the support of a dedicated team of volunteers and will be adding an additional day a week to provide powerboating opportunities.

Alison Gunn, chairman of Lymington SailAbility, said: “I am delighted that The Princess Royal is able to join us to launch our new boat.

“It is going to offer a very different dynamic to the group and cater for the steadily increasing numbers of people wanting a powerboating experience.

“The Wheelyboat’s roll-on, roll-off bow ramp and level deck means that wheelchair users can enjoy independent access to the water.”

She added: “We have received fantastic support and donations. The generosity of one donor has allowed us to acquire the boat far more quickly than we expected. We are also grateful to Pebble Beach, one of our longest supporters and donors.”