A British Thematic

See if you can discover the theme of the dramatic boat launching depicted on this 1985 British stamp:

a) exploration
b) interdiction
c) supply
d) rescue

The Royal Navy Lifeboat Institution ( or RNLI, as identified by the flags at the bottom right of the design) has been rescuing sailors since 1824. You’re a right old salt if you answered (d).

A voluntary organization founded by Sir William Hillary, the RNLI has been credited with saving thousands of lives.

The vessel shown on this stamp is probably a Tyne-class lifeboat of a type introduced in 1982, since it is being launched from a fast slipway.

In a clever design touch, the year of issue can be discerned at bottom right, also illustrated by international maritime flags.