A NEW £2.5m lifeboat is now in service at a South Wales docks, ready to save lives.

The new Shannon class lifeboat at Barry Dock RNLI, Richard and Caroline Colton II, began its service at 10am on Sunday, June 9.

The vessel was constructed at the All-Weather Lifeboat Centre in Poole and launched in January this year.

Following sea trials, it navigated the four-day voyage from Poole to Barry.

On arriving at Whitmore Bay on March 17, a crowd welcomed both the crew and their new companion.

Since their new arrival, the volunteer crew has undergone extensive training to develop the necessary skills to operate the new lifeboat.

Andy Gavan, coxswain of Barry Dock RNLI lifeboat, said: "'After weeks of extensive training by Barry Dock RNLI volunteers, all the hard work has paid off as the Shannon class lifeboat is officially placed on service.

"I would like to thank all the crew and their families for their unwavering commitment and dedication – this has truly been a team effort.'"

Ryan Jennings, RNLI regional lifesaving lead, also acknowledged the importance of the new vessel.

He said: "‘The Shannon class lifeboat beginning its service is a very exciting development for all at Barry Dock.

"This is an exciting new chapter in Barry Dock RNLI’s longstanding history, and I look forward to witnessing the success of the crew going forward on their mission to saving lives at sea.’"