Most lifeboats are moored in harbour

It will eventually be given the name of a river, as are all the boats owned by the Royal National Lifeboat Institute (RNLI).

The FSB2 will replace existing Tyne-class boats, which are capable of just 17.6 knots.

Between 20 and 30 of the new boats will be built at a cost of about �2m each.

They will be sent to the lifeboat stations which still have slipways.

The RNLI's preferred option is to have boats already afloat and ready to go.

'Fantastic boat'

It has 59 of those - Severn-class and Trent-class - moored around the UK.

Sue Denny of the RNLI said: "This boat is going to be absolutely fantastic.

"It will not have a traditional wheel. There will be more of an airline-type cockpit.

"Three people will be sitting there and each can take control using controls built into the arms of their seats."

The first of the new boats will go into service after 2003.

They will be paid for by voluntary contributions.