Final preparations are under way for the opening of the RNLI's first all-weather lifeboat station in Scotland for more than 20 years.
The new lifeboat station at Leverburgh on the Sound of Harris is due to open on May 11.
The new station is filling a gap in coastal cover following appeals from local residents over the last few years.
Until now the Sound of Harris has been covered by lifeboat volunteers in Stornoway, Portree and Barra.
The station's boat, the 24-year-old Lifetime Care, is arriving in the Hebrides on Wednesday ahead of the grand opening next week.
The rescue charity will monitor the effectiveness of the Leverburgh station for at least a year before deciding whether to make it permanent.
Paul Jennings, RNLI Scotland inspector, said: "Everyone has worked very hard to ensure that the RNLI can establish a trial station at Leverburgh and we thank everyone for their support, both on the operational and fundraising sides.
"The crew has had the opportunity in training to experience the tasks that will be demanded of them at sea."
Growing numbers of offshore fish farms, renewable energy projects and leisure craft have prompted the calls for a new lifeboat station.
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