The RNLI will be testing a potentially new rescue vehicle, a 7.6m (25ft) hovercraft, in local waters from the middle of January. The six-seater craft will be tested over a variety of terrains, including grasses, mud banks, and different beach conditions. 'Flying' under different weather conditions will also assist the project team to decide if hovercraft has a practical use for the RNLI throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland.

Hugh Fogarty, RNLI staff officer operations (inshore lifeboats), who is in charge of the operational aspects of the project says,

'RNLI lifeboats often have to operate in estuaries or close inshore where the terrain presents problems for water-borne craft. Hovercraft could supply the solution and help us save more lives and reach people more quickly. We have two requirements - that it should be able to work in different terrains and that our volunteer crews will be able to master 'flying' it.'

The RNLI is consulting with local interest groups such as English Nature, Dorset Wildfowlers and the RSPB, as well as Poole Harbour Commissioners. And subject to the Commissioners approval, the orange and black craft will be tested in areas that are acceptable to all parties and unlikely to cause any damage to wildlife or the environment.

An opportunity to see over the craft and talk to the project team will take place at 10.30am on Thursday 11 January at the main building, RNLI headquarters, West Quay Road, Poole, Dorset.

Further opportunities to see the hovercraft will not take place until after the trials have been completed.