Shannon Lifeboat arrival in Clacton captured by artist

Chris Ware, 63, has lived in Clacton for four years and since his move has built a close relationship with the RNLI crew.

Chris has built up a relationship with members of the RNLI team and even volunteers occasionally as their events photographer since losing his job around three years ago.

He has since created two mesmerising paintings of the Shannon Lifeboat which first arrived in Clacton in November last year. 

Proud - Chris Ware next to his painting (Image: Chris Ware) The first painting entitled 'The Arrival' shows the lifeboat when it first docked in Clacton and the second painting 'The Return' shows the boat coming back after a stint in Burnham.

The all-weather lifeboat is the first of its kind to dock in the seaside town for 40 years.

Another - the second painting entitled 'The Return' (Image: Chris Ware) Chris said: “About three years ago I gave up my job and have been my partner's carer full-time, we also have a five-year-old.

“It’s been tough and with my artwork in the past I can only paint when I’m in a dark place and it was getting that way.

“Since moving to the area, we spend a lot of time down the beach and see these things and it makes you realise the importance of what they do.

“I spent 200 hours on the painting which is nothing in comparison to these people that give up their free time and put themselves in danger have to go through.

“Going back about ten years, I used to do acrylics before switching to oil paintings and I haven’t looked back since."

Chris says he hopes to do more to support the RNLI.

He said: “I gave the painting to the RNLI as a Christmas present which they had no idea I was going to do.

“I’m a big fan of the RNLI and I would love to volunteer but I just don’t have the time.

“I started helping with fundraising and getting involved with collection boxes about a year ago, it’s like a big family and they have been brilliant.”

If you would be interested in volunteering for the RNLI, visit their website.