by magoonigal » Fri Jun 22, 2012 11:36 pm
Initially known as FAB3 (Fast Afloat Boat) the Severn and Trent (FAB4) were built to replace the Arun and Waveney Class boats and to provide a well equipped boat capable of long endurance and 25 knots.
Overall there were 46 Severn's built between 1991 and 2004. Length in Old money was 55ft 9ins with a beam of 18ft and a draught of 5ft 6in. Fuel capacity is 1,200 gallons and displacement is 36.9 tons. The Severn Hull is built of Fibre Reinforced Composite and they have six bulkheads, dividing the Hull up into seven compartments.
The Deckhouse has seating for Six Crew plus a Doctor and two loaded stretchers. They have a flying Bridge with duplicate controls to the wheelhouse and a Y Class inflatable which is davit launched. The Hull line is also dropped to improve casualty handling. With the exception of the first of class all the Hulls and Superstructures were fabricated by Green Marine, Lymington.
The Daniel L Gibson (38 of 46) was built in 2002 and fitted out by the Berthon Boat Company at a cost of £1,900,000. Payment was via a Legacy by John Gibson of Yorkshire nd she has been a member of the Relief fleet since built.
Engines are Twin 1200 hp Caterpillar Diesels running at 2,300 rpm and delivering a speed of 25 Knots. She is also fitted with a bow thrust.
Paul Hood. + WSS Tyneside Branch Hon Sec.