Hornsea Inshore Rescue is appealing for new volunteers to join the crew of its lifeboat, Spirit of Hornsea.
The independent lifeboat, flood rescue and sea safety education organisation was called out more than 20 times last year to incidents including medical emergencies, broken-down boats and people stranded or washed out to sea. Over the years, the team has saved many lives and received numerous awards for their rescues.
Coxswain Tom Mitchell is encouraging people aged 18 and over who live or work in the Hornsea area to get in touch.
“We work together as a close knit team, ready day and night, every day of the year to help save lives along our part of the Yorkshire coast,” he said. “We are particularly, but not exclusively, interested in hearing from people who could be available during weekdays.”
Successful applicants will start as shore crew, learning the lifeboat and procedures before completing mandatory sea safety courses and progressing to “competent boat crew” stage – usually in 12 to 18 months. Training takes place every Thursday evening.
“As well as being a good team player and communicator, potential crew members should be water confident, though being able to swim is not a requirement, but they will need to understand that the role can at times be physically and emotionally demanding,” Tom added.
“Our volunteer roles can give a great sense of satisfaction. It’s an amazing feeling of accomplishment when we help people and have successful outcomes and get people home safely. We feel it is a great way to give something back to the community.”
Hornsea Inshore Rescue is a totally independent, volunteer-run organisation with no RNLI or government funding. To apply, email [email protected] or call in at the Hornsea Boat Launch Café for a form.