York Rescue Boat’s newest vessel to honour teen who drowned in River Foss in 2019

UK charity York Rescue Boat has confirmed its purchase of a new rigid inflatable boat (RIB), which is scheduled for delivery before the end of the year.

The boat will be named Spirit of Sonny in honour of Sonny Ferry, a 19-year-old Rutland resident who died in a drowning accident in York’s River Foss in 2019.

The acquisition was the result of a pledge by Sonny’s parents, Kate and Steve Ferry, to raise £45,000 (US$62,520) for a new lifeboat. York Rescue Boat said the couple were able to raise only £34,000 (US$47,230), but the purchase will still proceed thanks to an offer of assistance from boat dealer Acaster Marine and builder Highfield Boats.

The RIB’s bespoke modifications will include an improved sonar and radio, towing equipment, and a large working deck area capable of accommodating a basket stretcher.

Spirit of Sonny will replace the charity’s current boat, which is nearly 15 years old and approaching the end of its operational life. Once the new RIB is delivered, the older boat will be used for crew training.