A former lifeboatman has expressed 'disgust' that a £2.5m vessel has not been used for life-saving missions despite being delivered eight months ago.

The ‘George and Frances Phelon’ - named after the late couple who funded its construction - arrived at Great Yarmouth and Gorleston Lifeboat Station in September last year.

On that day, hundreds of people gathered to watch a display as the vessel was escorted to her new Norfolk home by five vessels. 

But Paddy Lee, former coxswain at Great Yarmouth and Gorleston Lifeboat Station, who served with the RNLI for 39 years, told BBC Radio Norfolk on Tuesday, May 14, that the boat has not been used because the facilities are not adequate.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Great Yarmouth and Gorleston's RNLI station welcomed the new 13-44 Shannon Class lifeboat 'George and Frances Phelon’ in September last year.Great Yarmouth and Gorleston's RNLI station welcomed the new 13-44 Shannon Class lifeboat 'George and Frances Phelon’ in September last year. (Image: Mick Howes)

He said it was "disgusting" and "absolutely disgraceful" that the lifeboat was not doing life-saving work.

Mr Lee also said that many years ago, crew told the RNLI that the berth was too dangerous for the vessel - but the charity did not listen.

In response, the RNLI said they are finalising plans to create safe mooring for the boat which is currently at a marina in Oulton Broad.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Paddy Lee, former coxswain, has said a £2.5m lifeboat has been left languishing since it was delivered to Norfolk last September.Paddy Lee, former coxswain, has said a £2.5m lifeboat has been left languishing since it was delivered to Norfolk last September. (Image: Great Yarmouth and Gorleston RNLI)

A spokesperson said: "The RNLI continues to work closely with Peel Ports and the local council to find a solution on the best location to keep the Great Yarmouth and Gorleston Shannon class lifeboat.

"When we know more about what this solution looks like, we will be able to provide more detail."

They said preparation works were carried out in advance of the Shannon class lifeboat’s arrival and while they later learned more work would be needed on the berth, the lifeboat was delivered to the station to ensure the crew could start training immediately.

The vessel, a Shannon Class RNLB 13-44, is the nation's first legacy lifeboat - meaning it bears the name of a person who has left a gift in their will to the RNLI on the side of the vessel.