Clacton RNLI press officer Mark Walsham said the lifeboat marked a new era for the station, which opened in 1878.

“This state-of-the-art lifeboat is built and equipped to withstand the harshest weather conditions and has a significantly longer service range,” he said.

“This highly capable lifeboat, piloted by our volunteer crews, will continue our charity’s core aims of saving lives at sea.”

The lifeboat was funded by a donation from Chris and Jo West, a couple who witnessed a rescue at sea and were inspired by what they saw.

Ms Parker said she was “incredibly honoured” to receive the ship and thanked Mr and Mrs West and former station volunteers for their efforts.