Pioneering trial under way between HM Coastguard and National Coastwatch

NCI volunteers will from next month (April) man the lookout and share facilities with the coastguard rescue team at Bembridge coastguard station at Beachfield Road, Bembridge.

The trial, which is the first of its kind in the UK, will initially be run during the weekends and bank holidays from the beginning of April until the end of September 2022.

HM Coastguard is anticipating another busy summer and the coast of Bembridge, a popular base for fishing, sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding and rock pooling, is expected to be heavily frequented by locals and visitors alike in the warmer months.

Chris Enright, Divisional Commander for HM Coastguard said: “This is an exciting trial that could pave the way for similar set-ups across the UK.

“Although separate organisations, HM Coastguard and the NCI share a common goal – that of ensuring the safety of people at sea and at the coast.

“I’m delighted that we’ve been able to work together on this trial, and we will be closely monitoring its success to see if this is something which could be continued, extended or rolled out to other suitable locations across the UK.”

Chris Aps, NCI Asset Development Trustee, said: “The response from HM Coastguard when I suggested the possibility that our two volunteer teams could work together from coastguard stations was incredibly positive and constructive”.

“It makes so much sense that trained NCI Watchkeepers man those coastguard station lookouts where there are active coastguard rescue teams.

“The NCI is thrilled by the promise this initiative brings and really looks forward to possible future collaborative ventures with HM Coastguard.”