New boat for disabled passengers to be officially named

A new boat to provide free pleasure trips on Poole Harbour for people with disabilities is due to be named later.

Dolphin IV, is the latest vessel run by Dorset charity The Friends of Dolphin, and follows the decommissioning of its predecessor, Dolphin III, in September.

The charity raised £150,000 towards the specially-adapted 10.2 metre (33 ft) catamaran.

The vessel is set to be officially named by ocean sailor Pip Hare at a ceremony at Poole Quay Boat Haven.

Dolphin IV was built on the Isle of Wight by Cheetah Marine in Cowes.

It features an extra-wide side door, allowing easy access for wheelchairs.

Special fixing points are provided for the clamping of wheelchairs.

The boat's skippers and crew are currently being trained before the summer season gets underway in May.

The charity was founded in 1982 and, since then, has provided free trips around the harbour for around 60,000 local people.

Dolphin III was its third boat and the charity said that after nearly 20 years of "stalwart service", a decision was taken for its "replacement and renewal".

"We are so pleased to have reached this milestone," Cox said.

"Our fundraisers have been busy for many years to ensure we can carry on giving free trips to those with disabilities.

"All our crew enjoy sharing their love of Poole Harbour with our passengers and we're looking forward to a busy season with our lovely new boat."

The charity said all funds raised through donations and sales of souvenirs go towards the annual running costs.

During the ceremony at at 13:30 GMT, Dolpin IV will be dedicated by the Reverend Lucy Holt, rector of St James Church, and named by Pip Hare, before a reception at the RNLI College.

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