A STRIKING model of a lifeboat crew member has been unveiled on the North-East coast.

The new eight foot tall statue, created by sculptor Ray Lonsdale, now has pride of place in Seaham Harbour Marina, County Durham.

The South Hetton artist also created Seaham’s now famous ‘Tommy’ statue, which shows a weary World War One soldier, and continues to draw visitors to the area.

Councillor Eddie Bell, chairman of Durham County Council and leader of Seaham Town Council, said: “It adds to what we are trying to achieve in Seaham with a remembrance of bygone days.

“Ray Lonsdale has produced another gem for the people of Seaham and visitors to observe and acknowledge.

“We are trying to make them part of the renaissance of the area and these statues are quite iconic in their own right.”

The new lifeboat crew member statue was commissioned and fundraised for by the East Durham Heritage and Lifeboat Centre, located at Seaham Harbour Marina in remembrance of the many RNLI volunteers who served in the area between 1870-1979.

It has been sculpted from Corten steel and is of a Coxswain, the crew member in charge of the vessel, who may also act as the helmsman, with the same rust-like finish as the ‘Tommy’ statue.

The unveiling was carried out by Jon Knight, the RNLI’s head of lifesaving on Sunday afternoon.

Funding for the project has been provided from three sources, the Durham County Councillors representing Seaham via the Area Action Partnership, the County Durham Community Foundation and from East Durham Heritage Group reserves.

The group has worked with the artist to ensure the statue of the coxswain is historically accurate, including his 1950’s oilskin coat, sou’wester and life jacket.

The statue, on the East Quay, near the heritage centre, offers visitors the chance to explore information on the maritime, industrial and social history and heritage of the Seaham and East Durham area.

A spokesman for the East Durham Heritage Group said: “The response we have had to the announcement that the memorial is to be unveiled, has been very encouraging.

“It will be a very valuable added feature of the Marina remembering all those who served, risked and gave their lives at RNLI Seaham during the 109 years of its existence.”