AN independent rescue team can continue keeping the Duddon Estuary safe after the arrival of a much-needed new inshore lifeboat.

Duddon Inshore Rescue has taken delivery of a £70,000 IBI D-Class boat, thanks to a generous legacy left by a local supporter.

The boat will replace the old model at Askam-in-Furness and will be on call 24/7, manned by a dedicated team of trained volunteers.

Norman Pascoe, of Duddon Inshore Rescue, said: “Rules and regulations are so strict now we were in great need of a new craft.

“This very generous legacy means we can carry on. There aren’t many privately owned lifeboats in the country so for a small village to keep one going since 1969 is remarkable.”