I'm a Coastguard Rescue Officer based in South Devon and we are often confused with the National Coastwatch Institution. The NCI provide the eyes and ears along the coast, monitoring radio channels and providing a listening watch in poor visibility, while HM Coastguard teams are actively involved in Search and Rescue and provide assistance to those in distress around the coast. When people get into trouble, the NCI are there to alert HM Coastguard and direct the appropriate rescue services to the casualty.

Each station is manned by a team of fully trained and dedicated volunteers who keep a daylight watch up to 365 days a year. They are trained to deal with emergencies offering a variety of skills and experience, and full training by the NCI ensures that high standards are met. Each station is responsible for raising sufficient funds to meet its running costs, fund raising is vital for the efficient upkeep of the station.

In March 2024, I will be walking the South West Coast Path in order to raise £1,000 for the National Coastwatch Institution. This is an incredible service that helps save lives every day. They provide a vital link with all the emergency services and can provide an emergency contact point on land for both sea and shore users.

Please join me in supporting this amazing charity - your donation will help save lives!

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