Felixstowe Coastguard Rescue Team launches latest recruitment drive
The Felixstowe Coastguard Rescue Team is recruiting new volunteers - Credit: Archant
The Felixstowe Coastguard Rescue Team has launched a volunteer recruitment drive for people wanting to help to keep the region’s coastline safe.
Coastguards respond to emergency 999 calls from the public for a range of incidents, including mud and water rescues, searches for missing persons, people cut off and stranded by the tide, ordinance and small craft in difficulties.
They work on a pager system and are on call 24-hours-a-day during their agreed shifts.
Don Ryles, station officer at Felixstowe, said: “On average, we have to attend 65 call-outs a year with 80% of those between May and September. With the busy period approaching, our recruitment is in full swing.
“It is a hugely rewarding role, a great way to give something back to the local community and provide a service which can save lives, whilst not having to give up your day job.
“No qualifications or experience is needed, just a keenness to help out and enthusiasm to make a difference.”
Full training, clothing and equipment will be given to new recruits, however applicants should have an understanding of the coastline, a general level of fitness and be able to swim.
Most Read
- 1 Man detained after early morning incident in Ipswich road
- 2 Firefighters called to Ipswich house fire
- 3 Baby and toddler retailer Mamas & Papas set for Ipswich return
- 4 7 roadworks for drivers in Suffolk to be aware of this week
- 5 Woman injured after leg bitten by dog in Ipswich
- 6 Man who stole over £1,000 in power tools jailed for 876 days
- 7 New 99-room Ipswich Travelodge expected to open next year
- 8 Boy, 14, arrested after serious sex attack in Suffolk town is released
- 9 Some East of England Co-op stores unable to take cash
- 10 'Amazing start' for baker who sells treats out of horsebox
Anyone interested in joining the coastguard team should email crsenquiries@mcga.gov.uk, including contact details and address.