THE NAMING OF LIFEBOAT, 'CECIL AND LILLIAN PHILPOT'
The Official Launch
By Peter Bailey M.B.E.
A launch of Newhaven's Lifeboat, the Cecil and Lillian Philpot, she with the little buff funnel, motor not steam, an amazing sight to see when the craft struck the water-at speed. At night or in a gale a very moving sight to experience.
She was christened by Prince George the Duke of Kent on 7th of July 1931; he remained aboard as she hurtled down the slipway as in this picture. Cheers from the great crowds around, including two channel steamers acting as grandstands. Clerks were on the roof of the Marine Offices to give their cheers, but that was to be bombed in the war to follow, it joined onto the London and Paris Hotel and caused a shake up to that. The Hotel became HMS Aggressive in the last war. Peter Scott was based there with his steam gunboats.
This page was added by
Tom Baker on 12/06/2007.