The John Avins was the first RNLI Lifeboat to enter service in Wick bought with a legacy from John Avins of Worcester two lifeboats were bought with the legacy the other being the Emma Avins and stationed in Plymouth.
She was a 34' ten oared self-righting lifeboat
The John Avins arrived in Wick in December 1885 and was named at a ceremony in the Rifle Drill Hall.