Fishguard’s famous lifeboat has been officially handed back to the town, 100 years to the date and time it was first launched.

Locals were joined by members of the Charterhouse school at a service held recently to mark the boat’s return.

A large gathering witnessed the renaming and rededication service in Fishguard harbour last Tuesday afternoon.

The Charterhouse served as Fishguard’s lifeboat from 1909 to 1931 after it was donated by Charterhouse School.

In 1920, the lifeboat was involved in the famous Hermina rescue and the crew members were awarded several medals for their efforts The lifeboat was de-commissioned, converted to a private yacht and re-named Marian in 1931. It was bought by the Lomas Family in 1946.

Phil Davies found the boat in North Wales, and the community was delighted when the boat returned to Fishguard this summer.

It is currently being kept next to the lifeboat station, just 100 yards from her 1909 berth.

Chairman of the Charterhouse Committee, Richard Davies, said: “It was an excellent service. Things are happening now, and the Carthusians were delighted with what we had achieved.

“We’re really pleased with how everything is looking for the future.”

Reverend Brian Barnes led a service as Tony Anstey of the Old Carthusians re-named the Charterhouse, and Jeffrey Mathews broke champagne over the bows.

Deputy Mayor Bob Wheatley presented Judith Lomas with a nameplate Marian, completed by St Davids RNLI Coxswain Malcolm Gray.

Since June the committee has prepared the boat for restoration and has been raising funds.

It is hoped the Charterhouse will be become a major tourist attraction in the new marina.

At a buffet at The Bay Hotel the Cathusians presented a cheque for £2,000 to the restoration fund, and they are continuing to raise money for the project at their London yacht club.