A campaign backed by The Packet to save Penlee's first motor lifeboat has proved successful - as a new owner has been found.

'The Brothers' (ON 671) is currently laid up in a Rochester boatyard and, needing significant hull repairs, was at risk of being broken up in three months time.

Paul Wilkin launched a campaign to save the 99-year-old lifeboat and Jonathan Banks came forward and bought her.

After reading about her plight in The Packet, Jonathan, an electrician from Newlyn, now plans to bring 'The Brothers' home to West Cornwall - but he needs somewhere to store her.

Falmouth Packet:

He said: "When I heard that 'The Brothers', a near 100 year old historic ex-lifeboat with so many local connections and stories, was potentially going to be scrapped for parts, in my mind we had no option but to get involved in trying to save her."

'The Brothers' was based in Penlee from 1922-1930 and saved many lives.

Falmouth Packet:

Read next: Campaign to save Penlee lifeboat 'The Brothers'

Jonathan continued: "Sat in a marina 300 miles away, holes in her hull and with little time before her imminent demise, I realised the best way to save her was to take her on myself, buy her and bring her home.

"It's an honour to be heading this project to save such an important boat and a huge thank you to everyone who's offered their help and support so far.

"But we need more help.

"If she is truly to come home we need to find somewhere close to Newlyn/Penzance where we can keep her and work on her while she is restored.

"If you know a farmer, estate owner, someone with a large garden, a spot on an industrial estate or perhaps someone at the council can help."

If you can help, email jonathan@thebrothers.uk or call him on 01736 887301.