IMechE presents prestigious Engineering Heritage Award to RNLI lifeboat that served at Dunkirk as the 85th anniversary is marked

We are proud to present the RNLI with a prestigious Engineering Heritage Award for the Thomas Kirk Wright lifeboat. The award was presented at a special ceremony at the RNLI College in Poole on 22 May, marking the 85th anniversary of the Dunkirk evacuation.

The Thomas Kirk Wright lifeboat, in service with the RNLI for 23 years, was one of 19 RNLI boats that took part in Operation Dynamo in 1940. Manned by the Royal Navy, it played a crucial role in the evacuation, helping to save hundreds of lives.

John Wood, Chair of IMechE’s Engineering Heritage Committee, presented the award and praised the lifeboat's significant contribution to both engineering and humanitarian history:

“The advanced engineering capabilities of the Thomas Kirk Wright at the time of its construction enabled it to save an estimated 300–500 lives. We are delighted to honour this remarkable vessel and the legacy of those who served aboard it.”

IMechE recognised the lifeboat for its Hotchkiss internal cone propeller system which allowed the lifeboat to operate in shallow water close to the shore. As a result, the Thomas Kirk Wight boat played an important role in the Dunkirk evacuation, where it was manned by the Royal Navy and helped to save the lives of those stranded.

Ross Barraclough, Chief Engineer and Technical Director at the RNLI, accepted the award, saying:

“We are absolutely thrilled to receive this prestigious award from IMechE for the Thomas Kirk Wright lifeboat. As we mark the 85th anniversary of Dunkirk, it’s important to recognise the part the RNLI played and the lives that the crew and their boats saved.”

The Engineering Heritage Awards celebrate pioneering engineering achievements that have made a significant contribution to society. The Thomas Kirk Wright now joins a distinguished list of recipients, highlighting its enduring legacy in both maritime rescue and mechanical innovation.