Mitsubishi Motors UK is delighted to announce it has recently concluded a deal with the RNLI to supply L200 4Work double-cab pick-ups for the charity's front-line beach rescue teams.

Initially, 12 Mitsubishis have been purchased to fulfil duties in the South and South West of England. It is expected that over the next two-years the L200 will replace existing vehicles at all 36 beaches in the region and then go on to replace all 62 units around the UK.

The RNLI Lifeguards provide an immediate response to incidents on Britain's most popular beaches. To perform this invaluable service they require a tough, reliable, multi-purpose vehicle - enter the Mitsubishi L200.

"When we considered all of the things we needed from a vehicle, the L200 came out on top," said RNLI Transport Manager, David Tidman. "It needs to be 4-wheel drive as it will operate almost entirely on sand, have excellent load-carrying and towing capabilities and ultimately, be reliable."

Each of the all-white L200s will be fitted with racks to carry surf rescue boards and other necessary equipment, plus emergency lighting, a PA system, VHF radio, as well as displaying the RNLI's distinctive Beach Lifeguard livery.

In some cases, the vehicles will be required to tow the RNLI's Rescue Watercraft', more commonly known as jet-skis and small inflatable boats for off-beach rescue operations. The RNLI are no strangers to Mitsubishi, having already purchased Shoguns and previous model L200s.

The RNLI's inaugural fleet of L200s went into operation a few weeks ago, just as the busy part of the season began, at some of the most popular coastal resorts in the South West, including Newquay, Perranporth and others in North Cornwall and North Devon.