Fishguard and Goodwick lifeboat station's new D-class inshore lifeboat was named and dedicated in a sunny ceremony last Saturday.

The lifeboat was handed over to the crew by Sylvia Hotchin. Sylvia thanked the various individuals and groups who had helped fundraise for the new vessel.

"When we were asked in 2004 if we could raise £29,000 for a new boat we wondered if we would ever get there," she said. "And here we are today."

Funds for the new boat were raised in a variety of ways, including two sponsored swims, a summer dance, sponsored off road challenges and several marathons.

Ian Hunter, who named the boat last Saturday, raised £15,000 through his organisation the Association of Optometrists. On retiring as chief executive of the organisation last year he asked for donations to be given to the RNLI instead of a retirement present.

"As a former crew member I know the dedication which all today's lifeboat crews put into their service both to seafarers and to the community," he said on Saturday.

"It's right that we support them in turn, both with equipment and vessels which enable them to do their job both to the high standards of excellence and the fine traditions of the RNLI.

"The magnificent fundraising led by Sylvia Hotchin and her team and to which my professional colleagues contributed so generously has enabled this station to be provided with this splendid, modern D class lifeboat which has already been launched on service 18 times."