A routine training exercise for Weston’s RNLI turned into an exciting visit onboard a French naval vessel.
The Léopard class training ship, FS Panthère (A749), was visiting British waters as part of a five-ship flotilla.
At the time of the unplanned meeting, the RNLI crew from the Atlantic 75 lifeboat came across the ship as it sailed through the Bristol Channel.
The crew were invited onboard to meet the crew and look around the ship.
Lifeboat helm, Simon Cresser, said: "It was a privilege to be invited aboard by the French captain who was keen to learn about the RNLI's purpose of saving lives at sea.
"We were introduced to the officers and students and were able to explain the dangers we have at the coast in Weston with the fast moving tides.
"We also described the range of work the RNLI undertakes in its vision of ending preventable loss of life at sea."
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