AN RNLI boat that saved lives at sea for 40 years has moved to Harwich’s Lifeboat Museum as the latest exhibit to go on show.

The City of Leicester is an RNLI boarding boat which served the Walton Lifeboat Station from 1932 until 1985.

It was on show at the Walton Maritime Museum before travelling by road to its new home outside the Harwich Society’s Lifeboat Museum in Wellington Road, Harwich.

Ken Brand, curator, said: “The City of Leicester was built on the River Colne in 1931 and served the Walton Lifeboat Station for over 40 years.

“She is a great addition to our lifeboat museum and we are delighted to have her.”

Colin Farnell, chairman of the Harwich Society, said: “The RNLI is so important to Harwich and we are very proud to operate our lifeboat museum to ensure that its history and connection to our town is maintained.

“As with all of our visitor attractions, the volunteers who manage the museum do a fantastic job and it is lovely to be able to provide them with such a significant new exhibit.”