Sutton Bridge Coastguard looking for more volunteers

An emergency service which helps to rescue people and animals is hoping to attract new recruits.

HM Coastguard unit at Sutton Bridge has launched a campaign to encourage more volunteers to join its ranks.

Since joining the unit a year ago, Matt Breathwick has helped the bomb squad on Hunstanton beach along with helping to rescue someone from the River Nene.

The Coastguard, which was established in 1822, helps to provide search and rescue along the coast and at sea.

Mr Breathwick, who was inspired to join as he wanted to learn new skills and make new friends said: “I feel the Lincolnshire Coastline is so amazing and what better way to spend time responding to incidents on it.

“Every call out is different, and there are people in the team of different ages and backgrounds. I like the excitement of being out at any time of the day or night.”

There are currently six people in the Sutton Bridge unit but they are hoping to attract a further two people.

Volunteers must be over the age of 18, live or work within 30 minutes of the station along with passing initial training and being reasonably fit and healthy.

The team, which covers from Tabs Head, on the Spalding side of The Haven to King’s Lynn, undertakes a range of activities including searching for missing people, assisting animal rescues or recovering wreckages.

Members are called out via a pager, Whatsapp or SMS message by the National Maritime Operations Centre.

Mr Breathwick said: “As a member I gain new skills such as rope techniques, water rescue skills and local knowledge of the area from local people.

“I really enjoy helping people and making new friends.

“HM Coastguard really look at their volunteers and are willing to help them as much as they can, so you feel valued.

“I would recommend to being as member as it’s a great team locally with a lot of local knowledge and skills. We have great rescue equipment and modern vehicles to deploy in.

“Training includes first aid skills, water rescue, map work, search techniques, radio communications and skills you need for your local area, for example rope rescue, mud rescue. Training is often held in the evenings or at weekends. You’ll be given all the equipment and protective clothing that you need.”

If you are interested in joining the Sutton Bridge unit go to: www.gov.uk/volunteer-as-a-coastguard