MORE than 100 people packed into Burnham-on-Sea RNLI's base to see the crew's new Atlantic 85 lifeboat officially named. 

On Saturday (June 15) Allison Reshad officially named the boat and handed it over to Burnham-on-Sea RNLI. 

The boat was funded by avid sailor Brian Sigley, Allison's uncle, who sadly died and left the money for the boat in his will. 

The Atlantic 85 named Doris Day and Brian was delivered to Burnham-on-Sea in February and joins the station's smaller B Class lifeboat.

Speaking at the event, Allison said: "Uncle Brian, he was a very intelligent, solitary man who was happiest at the helm of a boat. 

"Whether he had a crew to work with, or captaining his own boat single handedly. 

"In this respect Brian was acutely aware of the vital support provided by the RNLI. 

"I know Brian would have loved to have been here today - to see the result of their legacy. 

"A legacy that will benefit the lifesavers Brian so admired, for years to come."

Matt Davies, lifeboat operations manager for Burnham RNLI, accepted the lifeboat on behalf of Burnham Lifeboat Station 

He said: "We are all very proud of our new Atlantic 85, and will ensure she performs to the best of her capability."

Burnham and Highbridge Town Band performed at the event and Reverend Graham Witts delivered hymns and prayers as he lead the service of dedication.

Burnham-on-Sea MP James Heappey attended the ceremony and thanked Allison and staff at Burnham RNLI for the hard work they do to protect the town's coastline.

He said: "Thank you all for turning out to show your support for our lifeboat station. 

"Thank you to the band who have been on fine form and to Allison and her family for the bequest of your uncle Brian. 

"It is an extraordinary thing I think signing your will to give the money to buy something like this and I hope you the pride in knowing that two lives have already been saved by this boat."