A lifesaver bought by local volunteers has been named.
The £48,000 lifeboat was named Akira at a special ceremony organised by Anstruther RNLI to officially name its new D Class lifeboat which was funded entirely by local volunteers.
This essential lifesaving vessel, which has been funded by the volunteers of Anstruther lifeboat station in a number of events dating back to 2009, was accepted by RNLI vice-president Sir Andrew Cubie in a handover from Anstruther Lifeboat management group chairman John Smith.
Mr Smith said: ‘It gives me great delight to present this state-of the-art lifeboat to the RNLI to serve the local community here in Anstruther.”
Akira, which is the anglicised female version of the Scottish male name Acair -meaning anchor – was selected by Kirkton of Largo schoolgirl Eden Russell, 9, who won a competition last year to choose the name of the lifeboat.
Eden, who also presented a cheque for £815 from her fundraising efforts since winning the competition, symbolised the naming of the boat in the traditional manner of pouring whisky over the bow.
The boat was then launched to demonstrate its capabilities.
Station coxswain Michael Bruce accepted Akira from Sir Andrew and reiterated the pride of his crew in taking charge of such an immense lifeboat. Mr Bruce said: “It is an honour and privilege to accept this lifeboat on behalf of Anstruther Lifeboat Station.
“The efforts of our volunteer crew, shop staff and fundraisers have all played a vital part in funding this wonderful lifeboat.”
He also took the opportunity to thank the wider lifeboat family, especially the partners of its volunteers who support their loved ones in both on and off the lifeboat.
“Without your love, effort and support, we would not be afforded opportunities like we have here today,” he said.
Since arriving on station back in October, Akira has already taken part in seven rescues so far and remains ready to respond and serve the community at any hour of the day at the request of the UK Coastguard.
