"William and Kate Johnson is a remarkable vessel. This 60ft prototype lifeboat, which was built in 1923, incorporated features that became standard in British motor lifeboats throughout the 20th century. Designed by James Barnett, she represented a leap forward in lifeboat design. Twin engines and a shelter for survivors and crew were but two of her innovative features. She served at New Brighton from 1923 to 1950 without a break, saved 248 lives, was involved in RNLI Silver and Bronze medal-winning rescues, and her crew also gained the French Gold medal. This book traces the origins of the 60ft Barnett lifeboats. It looks at the histories of the prototype of the class and her three sister vessels in Aberdeen, Plymouth and Padstow, and shows the importance of William anda Kate Johnson in the development of the motor lifeboat. Her place in lifeboat history is now being recognised and she is on the National Register of Historic Vessels."--From back cover.