This morning I had the privilege and honour to attend the boathouse opening and naming ceremony of the new Shannon Class lifeboat at Swanage. As you'd expect, the turnout was high, all coming to see the immaculate new boat and smart crew. The boat is named George Thomas Lacy after a man of the same name. George served in the RN and it was his interest in the sea that led him to becoming a lifelong supporter of the RNLI, leaving a significant legacy in his Will. He died in 2006, aged 94, so sadly did not witness today's poignant ceremony. After the initial speeches, the Rev Tony Higgins took the short and touching Service. The boat, station and crew were all blessed, before the boat was launched down the new ramp after a count of 10. Coxswain Dave Turnbull then manoeuvred her smartly around before returning to the new boathouse to be lifted back out, ready for the next occasion. I met and chatted to many of those attending, before having to say my farewells and hop back on my motorcycle to Weymouth. I refuelled on the way over, wolfing down a sandwich, and met up with Mike Byatt, a former Labour councillor, who is now standing for us in a by-election for W&PBC. He is the most charming, intelligent and able man, and we were soon knocking on doors and listening to the many views of those we met. Another interesting session, where the feedback was mainly positive.