Clacton News
World's oldest motor lifeboat joins Queen's celebrations
12:30pm Sunday 5th February 2012
THE world’s oldest motor lifeboat will take part in the biggest flotilla ever seen on the River Thames to celebrate the Queen’s diamond jubilee.
The Walton-based James Stevens No. 14 will be among 1,000 vessels making up the Thames diamond jubilee pageant.
Boats of all shapes and sizes will be decked out in Union Jacks and streamers to mark the Queen’s 60th anniversary.
The Queen and other members of the royal family will join the flotilla on royal barge the Spirit of Chartwell.
James Stevens No.14 is owned and run by Frinton and Walton Heritage Trust.
Chairman Rachel Baldwin said they were "thrilled".
"It will be a once in a lifetime moment for all of us aboard James Stevens No.14 as part of this glorious moment in our rich royal history,” she said.
Sea Cadets from Walton will also take part in the June 3 spectacle after two boats from the Rebel Cadet Sea School were chosen.
They will carry VIP guests from the masters of the Worshipful Company of Shipwrights and the Worshipful Company of Fuellers, which are key supporters of TS Rebel, which trains cadets from all over the country.