The Duke of Kent has attended a special service marking 200 years of the RNLI.

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The ceremony took place at Westminster Abbey and saw three lifeboats brought to the doors of the ancient church to celebrate the anniversary. Events also took place around the country to mark the event.

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The Royal National Lifeboat Institution was set up in 1824 and has since saved over 146,000 lives. The Duke of Kent is its President. Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, husband of the Princess Royal, was also in attendance.

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The special service gave thanks for all those who have contributed to its work as well as reflecting on the lifesaving service it provides.

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The service was conducted by the Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, and the address was given by the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Reverend Justin Welby, who said ”Two hundred years is something extraordinary to celebrate. A common purpose for 200 years is almost unknown. Saving life is the most precious gift of all, and the basis of these gifts in the life and self-giving of God is a model for everyone.”

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The Duke of Kent met some of the volunteers and workers at the charity and inspected the three lifeboats – the William Riley, an oar powered boat built in 1909 as well as a D Class lifeboat and a modern Shannon class boat.

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The Duke also signed the RNLI’s 200th Pledge Scroll.