Peel RNLI station is being extended to make room for a new lifeboat.

Renovations to the RNLI lifeboat station are under way so it can house the new Shannon class all-weather lifeboat, which is expected to come into service in spring 2020.

The new vessel and its launch vehicle are both larger than the current Mersey class Ruby Clery and its launch vehicle.

Allen Corlett, Peel lifeboat operations manager, said: ’Despite the renovation work, I want to assure the public that our volunteer crew remain ready to help anyone needing our assistance.

’The Ruby Clery will be stored outside on its carriage close to the slipway, prepared for launching whenever required. People are now beginning to see changes to the site, but pedestrian and vehicle access to the end of the breakwater will be maintained.

’Several large shipping containers are being put in place to provide us with storage, office and crew facilities while the alterations are done.’

Island-based NK Construction Ltd is carrying out the renovation work for the RNLI. The work is planned to run for seven months.

Essential improvements to the facilities of the lifesaving charity are funded entirely by donations and legacies.

Peel’s Shannon class lifeboat was launched at RNLI headquarters in Poole last week for testing and sea trials.

The Shannon is the first all-weather lifeboat to be propelled by water jets instead of traditional propellers, making it more agile.

After extensive crew training, it is expected to be ready for service in spring 2020, replacing the Ruby Clery which has been in Peel since 1992.