Page Content: The charity’s lifeguards are now a familiar sight on Pembrokeshire beaches; RNLI lifeguards have been working in partnership with Pembrokeshire County Council since 2008 to provide safety cover on the county’s most popular beaches.  As the public look forward to another warm bank holiday weekend, RNLI lifeguards will be at their posts on Whitesands and Tenby South from 10am-6pm.  From Saturday the lifeguards will be ready at their posts seven days a week until Sunday 8 September.

Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy, Tourism and Communities, Councillor David Pugh, said:

‘We are delighted to welcome back the RNLI lifeguards to Pembrokeshire for another summer. They provide a fantastic service and their presence certainly makes our beaches safer for everyone to enjoy.’

As well as Whitesands and Tenby South beach, the charity’s lifeguards will provide voluntary patrol on Newgale, New Quay and Aberystwyth South beach over the Bank Holiday weekend, once again working alongside local Surf Lifesaving Clubs.

Philip Davies, RNLI Lifeguard Manager said:

‘As we look forward to another bank holiday weekend, RNLI lifeguards will be ready at their posts on Whitesands and Tenby South beach, as well as providing a voluntary beach safety patrol on Newgale, New Quay and Aberystwyth South beach to assist members of the public.

‘It was great to see locals and visitors flock to Welsh beaches earlier this month, and hopefully the sun will shine again this weekend for another successful bank holiday.  Please remember that even though the sun is shining, temperatures out on the coast can change dramatically throughout the day – sea temperatures are still below average for this time of year and also be prepared for wind chill.’

Pembrokeshire RNLI lifeguards responded to 87 incidents on Whitesands beach in 2012, assisting 97 members of the public; elsewhere, their colleagues on Tenby South beach helped 51 members of the public whilst responding to 49 incidents on the popular beach over the summer season.

Some of the RNLI lifeguards have already been spotted on Tenby South beach this week as the charity’s Hit the Surf team returned to the beach to teach safety tips and skills to local children.  The educational programme will be held on the beach for three weeks, as the county’s children learn vital safety skills before their summer holidays.

Notes to editors
• Attached is a photo of Pembrokeshire RNLI lifeguards. Credit: RNLI.
• RNLI lifeguards will patrol Whitesands and Tenby South beach from Saturday 25 May until Sunday 8 September. 

RNLI media contact
For more information contact Eleri Roberts, RNLI Press Officer on 01745 585162 / 07771 941390 or e-mail Eleri_Roberts@rnli.org.uk. 

Page Content: As part of the charity’s international development programme, Idi has undergone rigorous training with the RNLI over the past year – both in the UK and in his home country of Senegal. Idi will return to Senegal in October to pass on his latest learning to other lifeguards back home.

In West Africa, Idi is a volunteer lifeguard and a former army rescue diver. Identified by the charity for his leadership potential, Idi was one of 14 international candidates to attend the bespoke ‘Future Leaders in Lifesaving’ course, which the RNLI ran for the first time last August at its headquarters in Poole. The course saw a group of representatives (including Idi and his colleague Moustapha) from lifesaving organisations around the world convene in the UK to learn from the RNLI how to manage and sustain their own organisations. During the course, Idi learnt about causes of drowning, the role of a lifeguard and equipment needed, how to write training programmes, and how to manage beach incidents and emergencies.

Idi and his fellow volunteer lifeguards received further training from the RNLI in December last year when two RNLI lifeguard trainers travelled to Idi’s home town of Dakar in Senegal to provide two weeks of rigorous lifesaving training, resulting in Dakar’s first dedicated lifeguarding service being established.

This summer, Idi will be patrolling Dorset beaches and delivering safety education programmes, working alongside the RNLI’s own lifeguards to help keep beach-goers safe. This will give him a vital insight into the daily running of a busy lifeguard service – from daily set-up and checks, to patrolling, offering advice to the public and carrying out and managing rescues.

Steve Wills, RNLI International Development Manager, says:

‘The RNLI’s international development programme aims to save some of the 1.2M lives lost to drowning around the world each year. By delivering training to people like Idi, we’re aiming to give others the vital skills they need to be able to set up and sustain their own lifesaving services.

‘Idi is a highly-motivated and professional lifesaver. It is less than a year since we first met him but, in that time, he has been through extensive RNLI training, both in the UK and in Senegal. He has already learnt a lot and, by patrolling with RNLI lifeguards this summer season, he will gain even more experience, which he can then share with his fellow lifeguards when he returns to Senegal. I have no doubt he will be a great asset to the RNLI this summer!’

Idi will return to Senegal at the end of the summer season and will pass on his most recently-acquired knowledge to his fellow lifeguards in Dakar, which the RNLI trained last December.  Idi will also help coordinate the next phase of the RNLI's Senegal programme, which is planned for December.

This film, which features Idi, shows the lifesaving training the RNLI delivered in Senegal last December.

Notes to Editors
• Two photos are attached: One of Idi (left) and a fellow Senegalese lifeguard, and another of a group of lifeguards being trained by the RNLI in Senegal. Please credit RNLI/Mike Lavis.
• The RNLI’s international development work is self-funding. The work is funded primarily through overseas sales of consultancy, equipment and training to countries that require those services; and external / government funding where available. In time, the RNLI will begin to fundraise for specific international projects.
• RNLI spokespeople are available for interview. Please contact RNLI Public Relations on the number below.

RNLI media contacts
For more information, contact Laura Fennimore, RNLI Public Relations Officer, on 01202 663181 or Laura_Fennimore@rnli.org.uk.

Page Content: RNLI lifeguards will be ready at their posts between 10am-6pm until September to spot potential dangers before they develop and offer appropriate safety advice when needed.

Sandy Bay and North Teignmouth beaches will be patrolled from Saturday 6 July.

Julian Smart, RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor says;

‘RNLI lifeguards are looking forward to returning to East Devon’s beaches over the Bank holiday weekend to start the charity’s seasonal safety cover. Once again, the lifeguards have all completed their training and passed all fitness and first aid tests to ensure that we provide a high quality service again this year.

‘Minor first aids kept the charity’s lifeguards particularly busy on all Exmouth, Dawlish Warren and Teignmouth beaches last summer. The team also assist the Ambulance Service as First Responders, and are ready to offer advice and assistance to members of the public.’

Notes to editors

• Please find attached two photos, one of an RNLI lifeguards providing beach safety education to Year 3 students at Beacon Church of England Primary School credit RNLI/Emma Tarling
One of RNLI lifeguards in action credit RNLI/Nathan Williams
 
• For filming and interview opportunities, please contact Amy Caldwell or Tamsin Thomas on the numbers below

• The RNLI offer the following safety advice for a safe summer at the beach;
• Swim at a lifeguarded beach, between the red and yellow flags
• Never use inflatables in strong winds or rough seas
• Check tide times before you go
• If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help
• If you see someone else in trouble, tell a lifeguard. If you can’t see a lifeguard, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

• In 2012 RNLI lifeguards, who were operational on 202 of the busiest beaches in the UK, dealt with 14,519 incidents and assisted 16,414 people.

RNLI media contacts
For further information please contact Amy Caldwell, RNLI Press Officer on 07920 818 807 or amy_caldwell@rnli.org.uk or Tamsin Thomas RNLI Public Relations Manager on 07786668847 or Tamsin_thomas@rnli.org.uk  

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Members of the public are invited to head down to Trevaunance Cove to be shown around the lifeboat station, take a closer look at the inshore lifeboat and launching tractor and have a chat with the volunteer crew.

Also taking place on the day will be a number of training sessions based on real life scenarios involving the lifeboat crew, the shore crew (who help launch) and the RNLI lifeguards who patrol the beaches in the summer season. There will also be experts on sea safety giving advice and carrying out checks for anglers and small fishing craft.

If you have ever wanted to join the lifeboat crew or become a lifeguard, this is your chance to come down, meet the team and find out if joining the RNLI is for you.

RNLI contact
For more information, please contact Claire Watkins, St Agnes Lifeboat Press Officer -  clairebellawatkins@gmail.com or 07977 880802 or Martyn Ward, RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor – martyn_ward@rnli.org.uk or 07812 733170

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The charity’s lifeguards will be operating daily beach safety patrols between 10am and 6pm from the Bank Holiday weekend through to 8 September on seven beaches on Tyneside and three beaches on Wearside.

All of the RNLI’s lifeguards have spent the last month honing their lifesaving skills and first aid abilities and they are now looking forward to the service becoming operational on the beaches.

95% of the role is preventative and the lifeguards will be on hand to offer friendly safety advice, such as always swimming between the red and yellow flags and tips on what to do if you get into trouble in the water.

RNLI Lifeguard Manager Carl Harris said: ‘We’re delighted to be starting our patrols again this weekend. The lifeguards have undergone a period of comprehensive training and passed rigorous fitness tests to ensure that everyone is in top condition and physically ready for the seasonal service.

‘Our lifeguards are there to provide a reassuring presence on the beach and to offer extra piece of mind to visitors, enabling them to have a safe and enjoyable experience at the seaside.’

The RNLI runs the lifeguard service in partnership with three local authorities*

Councillor Eddie Darke, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Culture and Tourism for North Tyneside Council, said: ‘We want residents and visitors to make the most of our stunning award-winning beaches over the summer, and the RNLI lifeguards do an invaluable job in making sure they are a safe environment for everyone to enjoy.’

Councillor John Kelly, Sunderland City Council's Portfolio Holder for Public Health, Wellness and Culture said: ‘Our beautiful beaches are one of the main attractions for visitors coming to Sunderland in the summer and we obviously want people to enjoy them in a safe way.
‘Here in Sunderland, with one of the oldest lifeboat stations in the country, we have a long tradition of working with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. The RNLI is one of the UK's most respected organisations and I'm very pleased that RNLI trained lifeguards are again helping safeguard our beaches.’


For those heading to the beach, the RNLI’s top five beach safety tips are:
 
1.       Swim at a lifeguarded beach, between the red and yellow flags
2.       Never use inflatables in strong winds or rough seas
3.       Check tide times before you go
4.       If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help
5.       If you see someone else in trouble, tell a lifeguard. If you can’t see a lifeguard,
          Call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Notes to editors
*The lifeguard posts are funded by the councils, while the extensive training and equipment needed by the lifeguards will be paid for by the RNLI. As a charity which depends on voluntary contributions and legacies for its income, the RNLI will be relying on the continued support of the public to help fund its role in this venture.

Picture caption
The photograph shows an RNLI lifeguard in action. Photo credit: RNLI.

RNLI media contacts
For more information, please contact Clare Hopps, RNLI Press Officer, North, on 01642 754811 or 07824 518641 or at clare_hopps@rnli.org.uk

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The charity’s lifeguards will be on hand during the half-term holiday to ensure daily visitor safety and to offer friendly advice from 10am to 6pm.

Following the school holidays, weekend lifeguard patrols will operate until 6 July, after which a seven-day-a-week service will commence until 8 September.

A daily service will also operate between these dates on Hornsea and Withernsea beaches.

RNLI Lifeguard Manager Chris Ward said: ‘Working closely with our partners at East Riding Council* we’re really looking forward to starting our lifeguarding service at Belvedere. The new patrols will complement our existing operations at Bridlington North and South beaches.

‘Our research has shown us that Belvedere beach is very popular with families and a wide variety of water users. RNLI lifeguards will now be available to offer friendly safety advice to such visitors, ranging from always swimming between the red and yellow flags, and to what to do if you get into difficulty in the water.’

Councillor Richard Burton, cabinet portfolio holder for civic wellbeing and culture at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: ‘Here in the East Riding, our beaches are one of the main attractions for visitors and we obviously want people to enjoy them in a safe way.

‘Once again, the council is delighted to be working in partnership with the RNLI to provide the lifeguard service, including patrols at our resort beaches, which will give peace of mind for residents and visitors alike.’

For those heading to the beach, the RNLI’s top five beach safety tips are:
 
1.       Swim at a lifeguarded beach, between the red and yellow flags
2.       Never use inflatables in strong winds or rough seas
3.       Check tide times before you go
4.       If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help
5.       If you see someone else in trouble, tell a lifeguard. If you can’t see a lifeguard,
          Call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Notes to editors
*The lifeguard posts are funded by the council while the extensive training and equipment needed by the lifeguards will be paid for by the RNLI. As a charity which depends on voluntary contributions and legacies for its income, the RNLI will be relying on the continued support of the public to help fund its role in this venture.

*A key part of a lifeguard’s job is to spot dangers before they develop and 95% of the role is preventative

Picture caption
1.The photograph shows an RNLI lifeguard on patrol. Photo credit: RNLI.
2.The picture shows Belvedere beach. Photo credit: Chris Ward.

RNLI media contacts
For more information, please contact Clare Hopps, RNLI Press Officer, North, on 01642 754811 or 07824 518641 or at clare_hopps@rnli.org.uk

Media invite

Event: RNLI lifeguards patrol Belvedere beach for the first time.
When: Saturday 25 May 2013 at 9.00am.
Where: Belvedere beach at the café on the beach front. Suggested parking: leave vehicles in the Park and Ride car park.
Opportunity: To film, photograph and interview RNLI lifeguards on their first day patrolling Belvedere beach.
Contact: To attend or for more information please contact: Clare Hopps, RNLI Press Officer, North, on 07824 518641.

Page Content: The charity’s lifeguards will be operating daily beach safety patrols between 10am and 6pm on Whitby, Filey, and Scarborough North and South beaches from 25 May through to 8 September.

The Sandsend service also comes on board for the May half-term holiday before going to weekends until 6 July with daily patrols operating until 8 September.

All of the RNLI’s lifeguards have spent the last month honing their lifesaving skills and first aid abilities and are now looking forward to the service becoming operational on the beaches.

95% of the role is preventative and the lifeguards will be on hand to offer friendly safety advice, such as always swimming between the red and yellow flags and tips on what to do if you get into trouble in the water.

RNLI Lifeguard Manager Chris Ward said: ‘Our lifeguards are there to provide a reassuring presence on the beach and to offer extra piece of mind to visitors, enabling them to have a safe and enjoyable experience at the seaside.

‘We are delighted to be starting our patrols again this weekend and this is the second year that we have operated on Sandsend beach. Owing to the popularity of the spot with families, walkers and artists, we have increased the number of lifeguards on the beach from a two-person to three-person patrol’.

The RNLI runs the lifeguard service in North Yorkshire on behalf of Scarborough Borough Council.*

Andrew Williams, Scarborough Borough Council’s Leisure Manager added: ‘Our partnership to deliver a lifeguard service with the RNLI throughout the summer continues to go from strength to strength and we are very pleased to see the increase in service capacity at Sandsend.

‘The lifeguards play a vital part in helping to keep our beaches safe for the many thousands of visitors that come to the North Yorkshire coast every year and they are also an important part of the criteria for beach management awards.’

For those heading to the beach, the RNLI’s top five beach safety tips are:
 
1.       Swim at a lifeguarded beach, between the red and yellow flags
2.       Never use inflatables in strong winds or rough seas
3.       Check tide times before you go
4.       If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help
5.       If you see someone else in trouble, tell a lifeguard. If you can’t see a lifeguard,
          Call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Notes to editors
*The lifeguard posts are funded by the council while the extensive training and equipment needed by the lifeguards will be paid for by the RNLI. As a charity which depends on voluntary contributions and legacies for its income, the RNLI will be relying on the continued support of the public to help fund its role in this venture.

Picture caption
The photograph shows an RNLI lifeguard offering safety advice to a young visitor to the beach.

RNLI media contacts
For more information, please contact Clare Hopps, RNLI Press Officer, North, on 01642 754811 or 07824 518641 or at clare_hopps@rnli.org.uk

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The charity’s lifeguards will be operating daily beach safety patrols between 10am and 6pm from the Bank Holiday weekend through to 8 September.

A full service will also come on board at Sutton-on-Sea from 22 June with daily patrols again operating until 8 September.

All of the RNLI’s lifeguards have spent the last month honing their lifesaving skills and first aid abilities and they are now looking forward to the service becoming operational on the beaches.

95% of the role is preventative and the lifeguards will be on hand to offer friendly safety advice, such as always swimming between the red and yellow flags and tips on what to do if you get into trouble in the water.

RNLI Lifeguard Manager Vincent Pank said: ‘We’re delighted to be starting our patrols again this weekend. The lifeguards have undergone a period of comprehensive training and passed rigorous fitness tests to ensure that everyone is in top condition and physically ready for the seasonal service.

‘Our lifeguards are there to provide a reassuring presence on the beach and to offer extra piece of mind to visitors, enabling them to have a safe and enjoyable experience at the seaside.’

The RNLI runs the lifeguard service in partnership with the Council.*

East Lindsey District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Culture, Leisure and Tourism, Councillor Adam Grist, said: ‘As the main tourist season is now upon us, we prepare for the start of the lifeguard patrols on the central beaches in Mablethorpe, Skegness and Sutton-on-Sea.

‘The visible presence of lifeguards on our beaches is important for both visitors and local people, and reassuring that assistance is there if someone gets into difficulty.  We’d always encourage people to respect the sea and to ensure they familiarise themselves with the flags and follow the advice provided by the lifeguards.’

For those heading to the beach, the RNLI’s top five beach safety tips are:
 
1.       Swim at a lifeguarded beach, between the red and yellow flags
2.       Never use inflatables in strong winds or rough seas
3.       Check tide times before you go
4.       If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help
5.       If you see someone else in trouble, tell a lifeguard. If you can’t see a lifeguard,
          Call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Notes to editors
*The lifeguard posts are funded by the council while the extensive training and equipment needed by the lifeguards will be paid for by the RNLI. As a charity which depends on voluntary contributions and legacies for its income, the RNLI will be relying on the continued support of the public to help fund its role in this venture.

Picture caption

The photograph shows an RNLI lifeguard keeping watch on the beach. Photo credit: RNLI

RNLI media contacts
For more information, please contact Clare Hopps, RNLI Press Officer, North, on 01642 754811 or 07824 518641 or at clare_hopps@rnli.org.uk

 

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Run on behalf of Swale Borough Council, the RNLI service has stationed three lifeguard units at Sheerness, Leysdown and Minster beaches. Lifeguards are equipped with the latest water rescue and casualty care equipment, including rescue tubes, spinal boards and defibrillators.

After a period of intensive training in rescue techniques and casualty care, the new recruits began their weekend patrols on Saturday 4 May, and will commence a full time service from 13 July to 18 September. A full week’s cover will also be in place for the summer half term (27 to 31 May). Teams are on hand from 10am to 6pm to provide beach safety advice and first aid, as well as assisting anyone who gets into difficulty in the water.

Senior Lifeguard Manager Darren Lewis said: ‘The RNLI is delighted to be providing beach safety patrols on Sheppey beaches this summer. Building on the expertise we have developed through 12 years of providing beach patrols, our new lifeguards have been training hard in preparation for the season ahead. They will work closely with our colleagues at Sheerness lifeboat station throughout the season to provide a seamless rescue service from the beach to the open sea.’

Councillor David Simmons, Swale Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Rural Affairs, said: ‘The RNLI brings a wealth of experience to the lifeguard service on the Isle of Sheppey. Of course we hope that residents and visitors to the Island will not have to use the service, but can be reassured that the RNLI is at hand if they are needed.’

David continued: ‘Volunteer lifeguards on Sheppey have always helped to provide this invaluable service and will continue to do so working alongside the RNLI.’

The RNLI first provided lifeguarding services in south west England in 2001, and in the following years the service has steadily expanded across the UK and Ireland. In 2012 RNLI lifeguards responded to 14,519 incidents and assisted 16,414 on some of the UK and Ireland’s busiest beaches.

Thanks to new beaches such as those on Sheppey, this summer has seen the RNLI’s beach total rise to over 200. Elsewhere in Kent, RNLI lifeguards went to the assistance of 664 people in their first season on 10 Thanet beaches in 2012. Rewarding training and job opportunities for new lifeguards in both Thanet and Sheppey are still on offer for the 2013 season. See https://jobs.rnli.org/lifeguards.html 

The charity’s new Beach Finder app enables users to search the UK for lifeguarded beaches and read up on local hazards. With real-time weather updates from the Met Office it also removes any doubt over whether to pack the umbrella or the sun cream! The app is available to download for Apple or Android devices at www.rnli.org/beach

Anyone planning a trip to the beach is encouraged follow these top tips:

1. Wherever possible swim at a lifeguarded beach and always swim between the red and yellow flags.
2. Never use inflatables in strong winds or rough seas.
3. Check tide times before you go.
4. If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help.
5. If you see someone else in trouble, tell a lifeguard. If you can’t see a lifeguard, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

For more information visit www.rnli.org/beachsafety

RNLI media contacts

For further information please contact Philly Byrde, RNLI Press Officer, on 07786 668825 or philly_byrde@rnli.org.uk or

For urgent out of hours enquiries, please contact the RNLI Duty Press Officer on 01202 336789.

Page Content: After finishing their daily safety patrol yesterday evening (Thursday) the quad bike was locked in a secure building overnight shortly after 6pm.  As the lifeguards returned to the beach this morning to set up the safety flags and equipment before their daily patrol, they found the doors to the building wide open and the major piece of safety equipment gone. 

Stuart Thompson, RNLI Lifeguard Manager said:

'Any theft is shocking but our equipment is used to help protect the public safety on the beaches.  The RNLI is a charity and we are able to provide the lifeguards with the best training and equipment due to generous donations by the public.  Hopefully anyone who has any information will assist the police in their enquiries and help return the all-terrain vehicle, which has been paid by public donations, to the RNLI.’

No other equipment was taken from the building during last night’s break-in.

Notes to editor
RNLI lifeguards provide a daily safety service on Caswell Bay, along with other Swansea beaches, between the hours of 10am-6pm throughout the summer season.

RNLI media contact
For more information contact Eleri Roberts, RNLI Press Officer on 01745 585162 / 07771 941390 or e-mail Eleri_Roberts@rnli.org.uk.

Page Content: Operations Director Michael Vlasto will receive an honorary RNLI Silver Medal, one of the charity’s highest accolades, at its Annual Presentation of Awards Ceremony in London on 23 May.

In his 16 years as Operations Director, Michael played an extraordinarily significant role in steering the charity from a lifeboating organisation to one which now includes lifeguards, hovercraft, flood rescue teams, lifeboats on the River Thames, and lifesaving training abroad. Devoted to his lifeboat volunteers’ safety, Michael and his team strove for cutting-edge lifesaving technology and training. In his 39 years at the RNLI, lifeboats have more than trebled in speed and major advances have been made in crew safety.

RNLI Chairman, Admiral The Lord Boyce, said: ‘Michael is a well-respected, influential and charismatic leader of the RNLI’s coastal operations and his achievements in the RNLI have been outstanding. He has inspired and implemented many of the more innovative - and sometimes courageous - steps that the Institution has taken in recent years.’ 

On being told of his award, Michael said: ‘It took me completely by surprise – I feel very humbled. Working for this wonderful organisation has been a privilege and also intensely rewarding.’

As Operations Director, Michael is responsible for the charity’s 237 lifeboat stations, their 6,000 crew, and 1,000 lifeguards across the UK and Ireland. He has shared the highs and lows of a close-knit maritime search and rescue organisation, which is integral to the UK and Irish coastal communities.

Michael was a Divisional Inspector in Scotland in 1981, when the eight volunteer crew of the Penlee lifeboat Solomon Browne were lost in Cornwall while trying to save those onboard the coaster Union Star.

Michael continued: ‘There have been tragic times. Penlee, and incidents where crew and their families are directly affected, stay with you for ever.’

Michael started at the RNLI in 1975 as an Assistant Inspector after nine years as a professional mariner with P&O. Since then, he oversaw the progression from an 8-knot fleet of Oakley, Barnet, Watson and Rother class lifeboats to the new, technologically advanced, 25-knot lifeboats like today’s Shannon and Tamar. As well as the improvements to the RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat fleet, Michael introduced rescue hovercraft in 2002 to improve coverage in shallow waters and over mud flats and the charity now has four lifeboat stations equipped with these craft.

He was also instrumental in introducing lifeboats onto the River Thames in 2002 after the Marchioness disaster. Tower lifeboat station, near Waterloo Bridge in central London, uses boats capable of 40 knots for rapid response and is now the busiest station in the RNLI. 

RNLI lifeguards started watching over beaches in the southwest in 2001, a move seen by some as a radical departure from the RNLI’s traditional focus on lifeboats. Lifeguards now form a major and fundamental part of the charity’s lifesaving activity with around 1,000 lifeguards now patrolling over 200 beaches around the UK.

Under Michael’s leadership the charity’s Flood Rescue Team was formed in 2002 and had its busiest year in 2012, with 12 deployments to flooding incidents, notably in Wales, Devon and Cornwall.

Michael said: ‘These developments have been focussed on saving more lives at sea, which is what we’re about. But none of this would have happened without the dedication and hard work of a lot of people. And not just operational people; without the funding, without the support, without the technical expertise, we wouldn’t have made these massive steps forwards.’

Michael, a keen advocate of sharing RNLI knowledge and expertise with search and rescue organisations abroad, further developed the Institution’s move into international work, which has included training lifeguards in Senegal and Kenya, and lifeboat training in the People’s Republic of China, Bangladesh and Uruguay. Michael is currently Chairman of Trustees of the International Maritime Rescue Federation, the NGO representing the world’s search and rescue services which has consultative status at the International Maritime Organisation.

Lord Boyce continued: ‘The result of Michael’s unparalleled dedication to lifesaving - giving his time, emotion and commitment to the RNLI for nearly 40 years - is that he leaves behind an organisation which has grown massively in confidence and reach; which enjoys an unparalleled reputation for successful operations; and which has found a secure place in the public affection.
 
‘He also leaves behind the over 7,000 men and women who crew and operate the RNLI’s lifeboat stations, and about 1,000 lifeguards, feeling well-supported, well-equipped and highly confident in their abilities – all as a direct result of his stewardship’ 

Michael will be presented with his honorary Silver Medal at the RNLI’s Annual Presentation of Awards at the Barbican in London on 23 May. He retires in July and will be succeeded by George Rawlinson, currently RNLI Head of Lifesaving Operations. Among other plans, Michael intends to teach his grandchildren to sail in the dinghies his own children learned to sail. They will be wearing lifejackets!

Michael Vlasto timeline:

1966
• Joins the P&O Shipping company as a cadet, working his way up to Senior Second Officer
1975
• Joins the RNLI as Assistant Inspector based in the charity’s headquarters in Poole
1976
• Becomes Divisional Inspector of Lifeboats (Scotland South)
1984
• Becomes Divisional Inspector of Lifeboats (West)
1990
• Becomes Staff Officer Operations (Training)
1994
• Becomes Sea Safety Liaison Officer
1997
• Operations Director

RNLI timeline:

1972 
• The first RIB (rigid inflatable boat), the Atlantic 21, enters service.
1981
• The eight volunteer crew of the Penlee lifeboat Solomon Browne are lost while trying to save those onboard the coaster Union Star. This was the last time that volunteer RNLI crew members lost their lives while on service.
1999
• A new, standardised form of crew training, called Competency Based Training (CoBT) was introduced across the RNLI.
2001
• First RNLI lifeguards patrol beaches in southwest England
• The first inland lifeboat station is established at Enniskillen in Northern Ireland
2002
• Introduction of RNLI Rescue Hovercraft
• Introduction of RNLI International Flood Rescue Team
• Four RNLI lifeboat stations are established on the River Thames
2003
• Rod MacDonald becomes the first RNLI lifeguard to be awarded and RNLI medal.
2004
• Aileen Jones becomes the first female lifeboat crew member to be awarded an RNLI medal
2004
• The RNLI College opens in Poole
2006
• The Tamar class lifeboat enters service at Tenby


Media contacts
For more information please contact Isla Reynolds, Public Relations Officer, on 01202 663127 or 07899 076224 or by email at isla_reynolds@rnli.org.uk.

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Running from 25 May to 1 June, the course will cover a comprehensive range of subjects including beach lifeguard theory, first aid and life support, and water rescue skills. Both theoretical and practical, it equips attendees with all the required skills and accreditation to work or volunteer as a beach lifeguard. Those who pass will receive a Surf Lifesaving Great Britain (SLS GB) Surf Lifeguard Award, valid for two years.

The course is running at a cost price of £100, which includes a training manual, all tuition and use of course equipment, assessment fee, certification, and one year’s membership to Joss Bay SLSC. 

Lifeguard Manager Rory Smith said: ‘The RNLI is delighted to be working in partnership with Joss Bay SLSC to build a pool of trained lifeguards. This course provides an exciting opportunity for members of the local community, aged 16 or over, to train as a beach lifeguard and engage in lifesaving activity for the future.

‘Attendance does not guarantee a position with the RNLI lifeguards, but we hope to create a strong pool of potential new recruits in the area. No matter what you go on to do after the course, these are vital skills which will stay with you for life, and one day might save the life of another. We hope that our support will enable the club to develop and sustain a strong membership for years to come.’

Joss Bay SLSC spokesman, Ross Halfpenny, said: ‘Our club is all about learning and maintaining lifesaving skills, enjoying regular land and water-based training and also competing in surf lifesaving competitions. We always welcome new members from experienced lifeguards to complete beginners’.

‘Becoming a trained volunteer with the club can be both a rewarding and valuable experience. Not only do members contribute to the local community by helping to keep the beaches safe, but they also gain new skills and keep a high level of fitness through regular training sessions. We are excited at the prospect of working in partnership with the RNLI Lifeguards and hope that it can spark a surge of prospective new lifesavers in the area.’

Rory Smith added: ‘In return for this great training opportunity, we’re looking for 100% commitment to the course and assessment, a good level of general fitness, and a high level of swimming ability. Candidates must be able to swim 400m in 7 minutes 30 seconds or less, in a front-facing stroke.’

Anyone interested in enrolling should contact RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor Nicholas Ayers at nicholas_ayers@rnli.org.uk or 07887 625269 for information and pre-course fitness testing.

Ends

Notes to Editors

- To find out more about Joss Bay SLSC or to come along to a training session, either to watch or take part, visit www.jossbayslsc.co.uk, join their Facebook group or follow them on Twitter at @JossBaySLSC for regular training updates.
- RNLI Lifeguards will patrol 10am to 6pm across 10 beaches in the Thanet area from 25 May – 8 September 2013. Patrols are at weekends and bank holidays only until 13 July, except at Joss Bay, Margate and Broadstairs which will be full time immediately.
- Candidates wishing to become an RNLI lifeguard need to go through a standard recruitment and selection process. This requires them to apply online, meet the RNLI fitness and competency standards, and pass a medical, eyesight test and CRB check. See http://jobs.rnli.org and click on the Lifeguard tab for more information.

RNLI media contacts

For further press information please contact Philly Byrde, RNLI Press Officer, on 07786 668825 or philly_byrde@rnli.org.uk

For urgent out of hours enquiries, please contact the RNLI Duty Press Officer on 01202 336789.

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The long relationship between the College and the RNLI is changing in course with the development of an RNLI beach lifeguard support centre, which is set to take the place of the lifeboat service currently stationed at UWC Atlantic College in Llantwit Major, which is set to cease operation next month.

The RNLI is confident that, with advances in technology together with faster more capable lifeboats at flank stations, a lifeboat is no longer required at the college. The flanking station at Porthcawl has a 35 knot inshore lifeboat and a new D class lifeboat. In addition to this, Barry Dock is home to a 25 knot all-weather Trent class lifeboat, so the area formerly served by the College is adequately served. The RNLI is confident that it is able to meet its strategic lifesaving requirements with the withdrawal of the UWC Atlantic College lifeboat.

Alun Wood, Head of the Outdoor Faculty at UWC Atlantic College comments:

'Since its opening in 1962, the college has been committed to adventurous marine activities and rescue services. We have a long and proud history of lifeguarding in Wales, with a well-established tradition of training students from around 90 different nationalities in the skills of surf lifesaving. Every August, generations of students have patrolled the local beach – Southerndown - often in collaboration with the local authority paid lifeguards.

'It will of course be sad to see the departure of our boat, but the introduction of the new RNLI beach lifeguard support centre seems a natural fit and marks an exciting opportunity for even more of our student body.'

The RNLI will work closely with the college’s lifeguard initiative to involve students in beach patrols in the area. RNLI lifeguards already operate at Whitmore Bay, Southerndown, Ogmore and Llantwit Major and students will help out on a voluntary basis as part of their service studies.

The RNLI lifeboat station at UWC Atlantic College is unique in that it has been manned by students and staff based on site at the international boarding school since the service was officially established there.

Matt Horton, RNLI Lifeguard Inspector says:

‘Last year, RNLI lifeguards began operating a beach safety service in the Vale of Glamorgan for the first time. Due to the close proximity of the four beaches to the college, students will really benefit from becoming involved in lifeguarding. The college attracts pupils from all over the world and there is real potential for us to develop not only lifeguard training, but sea safety, prevention and education. We have even discussed the possibility of teams of college students being deployed locally, nationally and potentially internationally to spread the RNLI message.’

Talks are underway about involving the college in the RNLI’s newly emerging International Development Programme, where some students may be selected to become involved with promoting lifesaving skills abroad. The RNLI is hopeful more lives internationally will be saved as part of the training they are offered.

Colin Williams, RNLI Regional Operations Manager for the West Region says:

‘I would like to thank members of the local community and former students at UWC Atlantic College for their understanding, commitment and dedication to the lifeboat station over the years. The decision of the coast review team to change the direction of the college is not taken lightly, however we have a duty to our supporters to use their money wisely. We are confident that the stretch of coast between Tusker Rock and Rhoose Point can be covered by the very effective lifeboats and their volunteer crews at Barry Dock and Porthcawl.

‘The station’s long history and important role in the development of the rigid inflatable boat (RIB) and the Atlantic 21 inshore lifeboat alongside the RNLI have huge importance to us and we want to retain strong links with the college. We look forward to the future and exploring the possibilities of how we can build on this relationship to the benefit of future students and the RNLI.’

UWC Atlantic College was one of the nine locations that helped to test and establish the RIB (rigid inflatable boat) as a potential lifesaving craft from 1963 onwards.  The rescue boats were manned by the members of the staff and pupils of the college.  It was not until 1973 that the RNLI sent UWC Atlantic College their first official lifeboat, an Atlantic 21. 

Experimental work on the development of fast rescue boats for the RNLI was carried out for many years at UWC Atlantic College under the supervision of Rear Admiral Desmond Hoare, the Headmaster.  He was the pioneer of a new larger class of 21 foot inshore lifeboat. His role and that of staff and students in the development was recognised by the naming of the class ‘Atlantic’, the latest version of which, the Atlantic 85, is stationed at Porthcawl. 

Ends
Notes to editors

• The RNLI conducts its Coast Reviews every five years to ensure the charity is meeting the UK and Republic of Ireland’s changing search and rescue needs while making best use of the public’s donations
• The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service

About UWC Atlantic College
UWC Atlantic College is an international residential sixth form college based in Llantwit Major, South Wales. The academic programme is the International Baccalaureate Diploma, which the college helped to develop.  It is the founding college of the UWC movement and was the first school in the UK to follow an international curriculum. The independently run college receives no subsidy from the UK government. However, approximately 60% of its students receive some financial support, enabling a diverse student body.
UWC Atlantic College is attended by approximately 350 students from more than 90 countries, who are selected on personal merit and potential – regardless of race, religion, cultural or socio-economic background.  Students follow a broad and balanced curriculum that is academically rigorous and embodies the school’s mission, preparing them for a life of service and leadership.
A core component of the UWC ethos is a commitment to community service; its service programme involves students engaged in a service or activity that supports other members of the college or local community.

RNLI media contacts
For more information please contact Danielle Rush Divisional Media Relations Manager (Wales) on 07786 668829 or 01745 585162, email Danielle_rush@rnli.org.uk or contact RNLI Public Relations on 01202 336789. On the day, please contact Claire-Marie Mason on 07901 877260 or Claire-marie_mason@rnli.org.uk.

UWC Atlantic College media contacts
For more information please contact Sophie Spooner on 07800 718599 or 02920 646 840, email Sophie.spooner@workingword.co.uk.

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Earlier in the weekend lifeguards at neighbouring Bantham beach rescued a kitesurfer stranded when the wind dropped and the tide came in.

On Sunday the 12 May at around 1.40pm, RNLI lifeguards at Sedgewell Cove used rescue boards to help two swimmers in difficulty in the river Avon. Both swimmers, aged 13 were paddling in the shallows when they got swept into the stronger currents in the river and could not return to shore.

RNLI lifeguard Lizzy Rudd noticed the father of the two girls running along the shore and Lizzy, with Senior RNLI lifeguard Chris Rampling, reacted immediately. They grabbed rescue boards and jumped into the water to help the two girls.

When the lifeguards reached the swimmers, the girls were clearly distressed and exhausted and the pair were returned safely to shore where they were assessed and monitored for shock.

Chris Rampling senior lifeguard stated "Had it not been for the quick actions of the RNLI lifeguards the outcome may have been very different. It all happened so fast, we did not even have time to put on our wetsuits. Thankfully the training the RNLI provides us is of a very high standard and allows us to deal with such situations when they arise."

Simon Crayfourd, RNLI Lifeguard Manager, said: "The water can be deceptive and strong currents can be difficult to spot. We want everyone to enjoy their time at the coast and would encourage people to go to a lifeguarded beach."

Earlier in the weekend, a kitesurfer had become stranded in a nearby cove when he'd ventured into the sheltered waters of ther river Avon. With the tide coming in and no wind to power his kite, lifeguards from Bantham beach launched their inshore rescue boat with Chris Rampling at the helm and Ivan Burton as crew.

The pair reached the kitesurfer and took him and his kite back to Sedgewell Cove where he had launched from earlier in the day.

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A kitesurfer was injured when he was dragged across Shore Road by his kite in Poole Harbour.

A member of the public ran to the  lifeguard tower on the other side of the peninsular and alerted the lifeguards.

One of the lifeguards ran back to the kitesurfer and, once the beach was covered, a second lifeguard joined him. They were also joined by an RNLI lifeguard supervisor.

All three gave the kitesurfer first aid and were helped by the police and ambulance services who arrived on the scene soon afterwards.

The kitesurfer was taken to hospital.

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Beaches at Sheringham, Cromer East, Mundesley, Sea Palling, Great Yarmouth and Gorleston will be covered seven days a week (10am to 6pm) by the charity’s highly-trained lifeguards until 15 September. A further three beaches at East Runton, Cromer West and Hemsby will have daily patrols in time for the main school holidays from 6 July to 8 September.

Lifeguards preparing for the new season have been put through their paces with timed swims, beach runs and extensive casualty care training.

Lifeguard Manager Vince Pank said: ‘We are very pleased to be returning to provide a lifeguarding service to nine local beaches.  Whilst our lifeguards are well-equipped to tackle rescue and first aid scenarios, 95% of their work is preventative. During patrols they are on hand to provide beach safety advice and answer the questions of Norfolk’s beachgoers.’

Last summer lifeguards in Norfolk responded to 704 incidents, and spoke to over 18,000 beachgoers. In August, Dan Tyler and Nick Ayers rescued a girl from a dangerous rip current whilst they were off duty, training on the beach at Gorleston. Their quick-thinking actions and bravery were commended with a Surf Life Saving GB Heroes of the Surf award earlier this year. Dan is now heading up the RNLI’s new Suffolk patrols in Southwold and Lowestoft, whilst Nick has joined the team in Thanet, Kent, in a new supervisor role.

Vince added: ‘Throughout the summer, the RNLI’s advice for anyone planning a trip to the coast is to choose a lifeguarded beach, particularly if you’re planning to go in the water, because you’re much safer when you have highly-trained lifesavers looking out for you. Along with lifeguards, the RNLI Beach Finder app means that people can enjoy a beach visit this summer which is memorable for all the right reasons.’

The app locates the user’s position and then lists the nearest lifeguarded beaches, as well as providing important information such as water quality, a description of the beach, the lifeguards’ patrol dates and times, and hazard information specific to each beach, such as whether it has big waves, strong winds, tidal cut off points or rip currents. Users can plan their trip to the beach by typing a postcode or town into the app’s search function to find lifeguarded beaches in that area.

Real-time weather information and a five-day forecast for each location are also included with the app – ideal for anyone wondering whether they’ll need to bring their suncream or waterproofs!

The app is free to download on both Android and Apple devices from www.rnli.org/beach

For more information visit www.rnli.org.uk/beachsafety

 

RNLI media contacts

For further information please contact Philly Byrde, RNLI Press Officer, on 07786 668825 or philly_byrde@rnli.org.uk

For urgent out of hours enquiries, please contact the RNLI Duty Press Officer on 01202 336789.

Page Content: ‘Philfest’ is to take place this Saturday (11 May) at Glyncoch Isaf Farm, Plwmp, Llandysul.

Phil, who has been providing safety cover on Ceredigion beaches with the RNLI since 2011, is well known in the area for his fundraising efforts towards local charities close to his heart.  His current project will raise funds for the RNLI as well as local community projects and charities within Ceredigion.

Phil explains:

‘Philfest includes all the things that I love and actively take part in my life; hopefully by showcasing the skills and good work that these charities and organisations do within the community, we can encourage others to join in and show their support too.’

The family fun day will include entertainment and activities that appeals to all ages.  Festivalgoers can take part in dance workshops, Brazilian martial arts workshops, be amazed by talented magicians and enjoy live music throughout the day.

RNLI lifeguards will be supporting their colleague at the event with an RNLI stand to provide beach safety advice, first aid demonstrations and games for all the family. 

Elin Jones, Ceredigion RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor said:

‘The Ceredigion RNLI lifeguard team are very proud of Phil for his tireless fundraising effort for local charities over the years.  He shows great commitment to both the RNLI as a seasonal lifeguard as well as his community throughout the year – we’re very pleased to be able to support him during ‘Philfest’ this weekend.’

Tickets are £12 for adults or £5 for children under 16.  Tickets for ‘Philfest’ can be bought on-line by visiting www.lovelife247.org/philfest or entry is available on the day.

Notes to editor
• Attached is a photo of RNLI lifeguard, Phil Blackwood.
• Charities and organisations that will benefit from Philfest includes: RNLI, Hafal, West
Wales Action for Mental Health, Tonic Surf Therapy Project, Llangrannog
Community Development Partnership, Capel Crannog, isle-to-isle.com. Creative Crannog Project. Crannog Surf Life Saving Club.

RNLI media contact
For more information contact Phil Blackwood on 07852 225981; or Eleri Roberts, RNLI Press Officer on 01745 585162 / 07771 941390 or e-mail  Eleri_Roberts@rnli.org.uk.

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Page Content: From a woman swept overboard in the Bristol Channel to men stranded on rocks at Abersoch and missing children on beaches, the sunshine saw people flocking to the coast.

The warm weather saw RNLI lifeguards return to their posts for the summer season.  RNLI lifeguards at both Aberavon in Neath and Port Talbot, and Whitmore Bay, Barry Island were kept busy yesterday (Monday) searching for missing children as families enjoyed a day out on the beach.  The charity’s lifeguards at Whitmore Bay helped search for over 30 missing children throughout the day.

On Saturday, RNLI lifeboats from Barmouth, Abersoch, New Quay, and Porthcawl were launched on separate services. One of the most dramatic rescues was at Barry Dock, when RNLI volunteers were called out shortly after 7am following reports a woman had been washed overboard from a 35 foot yacht.

The woman who was wearing a lifejacket was airlifted out of the water by the Rescue Helicopter 169 and taken to the University Hospital of Wales suffering from effects from the cold. The RNLI Trent class lifeboat Inner Wheel II, put two volunteer crew members aboard the yacht to help the skipper sail back to Barry with the lifeboat escorting.

Later that afternoon, RNLI volunteers from Abersoch were involved in the skilful rescue of two men trapped on rocks being pounded by a swelling sea.

During their second call out of the year, Abersoch RNLI volunteers stayed with two casualties, to await the arrival of RAF Rescue helicopter 122 which winched them all to safety. These dramatic events, which also involved teams of local Coastguard and Beach Patrol, took place at the precarious base of steep sea cliffs at the south eastern end of Porth Ceiriad, three miles south of Abersoch.

Saturday also saw the launch of two RNLI lifeboats from Pwllheli. The lifeboats were called to assist a broken down speedboat which had drifted close to rocks near Llanbedrog. A strengthening south westerly wind had blown the 20 foot speedboat with two adults and two children on board dangerously close to rocks at Carreg y Defaid.

Pwllheli's all-weather lifeboat, Lilly and Vincent Anthony, and the inshore lifeboat, Leslie and Peter Downes were launched soon after 4.30pm.

On Sunday, Beaumaris RNLI lifeboat was called to action and yesterday Burry Port RNLI lifeboat was called on three separate occasions, Rhyl lifeboat was launched as was Penarth.

RNLI lifeguards returned to their posts earlier than expected in west Wales as the lifeguards teamed up with local surf lifesaving clubs to provide voluntary safety patrols on New Quay, Newgale, Whitesands, Tenby South and Freshwater West as a result of the favourable forecast. 

RNLI lifeguards and Whitesands Surf Lifesaving Club volunteers helped a man stuck on the rocks late Sunday afternoon.  The man had climbed over the rocks on the busy beach and later found himself stuck in the tricky location.  RNLI and Whitesands volunteers kept an eye on the man, but when it came clear that he was unable to return to shore unassisted RNLI lifeguards went over to the location on a rescue board.  The man was carefully assisted on to the rescue board and the lifeguards paddled him back to shore.  The gentleman was given first aid treatment as a result of the cold.

Stuart Thompson, RNLI Lifeguard Manager said:

‘RNLI lifeguards were kept very busy throughout the weekend as thousands of people chose to enjoy the warm weather on Welsh beaches.  As a result of the volume of people on some of the beaches, the lifeguards assisted in searching for numerous amount of missing children throughout the weekend.’

Notes to editors
Rescue footage from Barry Dock, Abersoch and Pwllheli is available to download.

Media Contacts
For further information, please contact Danielle Rush or Eleri Roberts on 01745 585162.

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Lifeguard Manager Rory Smith said: ‘The RNLI is delighted to be working in partnership with Portsmouth and Southsea Voluntary Lifeguard Club. This course provides an exciting opportunity for members of the local community, aged 16 or over, to train as a beach lifeguard and engage in lifesaving activity for the future.

‘Attendance does not guarantee a position with the RNLI lifeguards during summer 2013, but we hope to create a strong pool of potential new recruits in the area. No matter what you go on to do after the course, these are vital skills which will stay with you for life, and one day might save the life of another.

‘The lifeguard club has a proud history of voluntary lifesaving, and we hope that our support will enable the club to develop and sustain a strong membership for years to come.’

Running from Saturday 25 May to Sunday 2 June, the course will cover a comprehensive range of subjects including beach lifeguard theory, first aid and life support, and water rescue skills. Both theoretical and practical, it equips attendees with all the required skills and accreditation to work or volunteer as a beach lifeguard. Those who pass will receive a Royal Lifesaving Society UK (RLSS UK) National Beach Lifeguard qualification, valid for two years.

The course is running at a cost price of £75, which includes a training manual, all tuition and use of course equipment, assessment fee, certification, and one year’s membership to Portsmouth and Southsea Volunteer Lifeguard Club. 

Honorary Secretary Cy Daruvalla at the Club said: ‘Becoming a trained volunteer with the club can be both a rewarding and valuable experience. Not only do members contribute to the local community and the “big society” as a whole by helping to keep the beaches safe and saving lives, but they can also gain valuable skills through regular training and be part of a close-knit social group that can be fun whatever the age group. We are excited with the prospect of working in partnership with the RNLI Lifeguards and hope that it can spark a new surge of prospective new lifesavers in the area.’

Rory Smith added: ‘In return for this great training opportunity, we’re looking for 100% commitment to the course and assessment, a good level of general fitness, and a high level of swimming ability. Candidates must be able to swim 400m in 8 minutes or less, in a front-facing stroke.’

Anyone interested in enrolling should contact RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor Felicity Elliott at felicity_elliott@rnli.org.uk or 07887 625266 for pre-course information and details of pre-course fitness testing.

Ends

Notes to Editors

- The lifeguarding service in Portsmouth is provided in conjunction with Portsmouth City Council.
- Lifeguards will patrol 10am to 6pm, seven days a week, from 20 July to 8 September 2013 at Southsea West, Southsea East and Eastney.
- Candidates wishing to become an RNLI lifeguard need to go through a standard recruitment and selection process. This requires them to apply online, meet the RNLI fitness and competency standards, and pass a medical, eyesight test and CRB check. See http://jobs.rnli.org and click on the Lifeguard tab for more information.
- Portsmouth & Southsea Voluntary Lifeguards have been established since 1933, patrolling the beaches at Southsea every summer by trained volunteers. The Club provides training to members and one of its aims is to increase public awareness of lifesaving techniques. The main focus of the club is to provide beach lifeguard cover for Southsea seafront which takes the form of shoreline and boat patrols during weekends and bank holidays between May and September. In addition to the patrols undertaken, the club is a declared rescue unit to Her Majesty’s Coastguard and members of the Solent Sea Rescue Organisation which sees both lifeguard members and rescue boat crews being tasked to 999 incidents. The club continues to be an active and busy front line rescue unit dealing with various incidents including; first aids, lost persons, advanced life support, distressed swimmers, boat inshore rescues and other general search and rescue incidents. The lifeguards also provide safety cover for local events such as swimming races, boat races/regattas and cross-Solent swimming events.

RNLI media contacts

For further press information please contact Philly Byrde, RNLI Press Officer, on 07786 668825 or philly_byrde@rnli.org.uk

Tim Ash, RNLI PR Manager, on 07785 296252 or tim_ash@rnli.org.uk

For urgent out of hours enquiries, please contact the RNLI Duty Press Officer on 01202 336789.

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Page Content: The bank holiday sunshine meant Weymouth beach was a popular destination for the public on Saturday. At about 6pm an eagle eyed lifeguard spotted an inflatable approximately 100m offshore, but because of strong offshore winds, in the short time it took the lifeguard to reach him on a rescue board he had drifted 500m out to sea.
 
The inshore rescue boat was launched at the request of the lifeguard who had reached the drifting inflatable, which had travelled another 250m. The man and his belongings were brought back to shore by the lifeguards, where he was given a first aid check. 
 
RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor for Weymouth Jake Clifford said: ‘Thanks valuable training and quick thinking by the Lifeguards on the beach we were able to rescue the man and his inflatable from drifting out any further to sea.
 
‘If using an inflatable in the sea always do so on a lifeguarded beach and stay between the red and yellow flags. We strongly advise against using inflatables in choppy conditions or if the orange windsock is flying. children’s’ inflatables should always be secured by a line, held onto by an adult’
 
 
RNLI media contacts
For more information please telephone Kirsti Pawlowski, RNLI Public Relations Officer on 01202 336789 or Kirsti_pawlowski@rnli.org.uk
 
RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press
 
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 160 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 139,000 lives.
 
A charity registered in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SC037736). Charity number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland
 
 
 

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All of the RNLI staff at the Divisional Base in Saltash, Cornwall will be washing cars on Friday’s during November and December as part of their Soap Our Saloons SOS fundraising event. In the count down to the RNLI’s biggest fundraising day on Friday 30 January 2009, RNLI staff will offer to clean your car for a donation, helping to raise over £50,000 for the RNLI volunteer lifeboat crews and lifeguards in the south west.
 
Anyone living or working in and around Saltash, or those driving through are encouraged to show their support by booking a car wash now. The RNLI Divisional Base staff will provide tea and cake while owners car’s are cleaned, and people can support the charity even further by buying their RNLI Christmas cards at the same time. Children can even enter the RNLI SOS colouring competition while they wait, with the chance of winning some exciting RNLI goodies.

Anyone wanting to book their car in to be washed can call the Divisional Base in Saltash on 01752 850680. 

RNLI supporters in the south west can also hold their own SOS themed event, taking inspiration from the SOS acronym to find a fundraising event to suit them whether it’s Sample Our Snacks, Sing Our Songs or a wine tasting evening Shiraz Or Sauvignon.
People can do anything they want to raise cash and are encouraged to hold their SOS event any time in the run up to SOS Day on Friday 30 January 2009, all proceeds will fund the lifesaving work of the charity’s volunteer crew and lifeguards in the south west. 

For more information on SOS Day 2009 or to reserve a free fundraising pack, visit rnli.org.uk/sos or call 0845 121 4999.

Notes to editors

· Please find attached a picture a car being washed by a member of the RNLI Divisional Base staff as part of the Soap Our Saloons fundraising event.

· The RNLI is a registered charity, which exists to save lives at sea. It relies on voluntary contributions and legacies to ensure its lifeguards and volunteer crews have the very best training and equipment.

RNLI media contacts
For more information please contact RNLI lifeguard Press Officer Amy Caldwell on 07920 818 807 or acaldwell@rnli.org.uk
 
RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

Page Content: West Wales RNLI lifeguards will be returning to their posts earlier than usual this year as they join local surf lifesaving clubs to provide voluntary patrols on selected Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire beaches.

RNLI lifeguards will join volunteers from local surf lifesaving clubs to provide a voluntary safety patrol at New Quay, Whitesands, Newgale, Tenby South and Freshwater West beach between the hours of 10am-6pm throughout the Bank Holiday weekend.  

Philip Davies, RNLI Lifeguard Manager said:  ‘After the recent spell of bad weather the sunshine and warm temperatures will be welcomed across the country.  Because of the forecast, RNLI lifeguards will be joining local Surf Lifesaving Clubs in New Quay, Newgale, Whitesands, Tenby South and Freshwater West to provide voluntary safety patrols on the beaches throughout the weekend.

'It’s great to see the sun shining; however sea temperatures are still very cold and we advise anyone venturing in or onto the water to come prepared with a good wetsuit. While it’s good to see people enjoying the beaches, we’d encourage you to make sure you have the right kit to keep warm.’

As well as providing voluntary safety service on New Quay beach this weekend, the charity’s lifeguards will be working with New Quay RNLI lifeboat crew, Ceredigion County Council and local companies to provide kayaking safety workshops in the town on Saturday.  The charity’s lifeguards and lifeboat crew will take part in staged scenarios, safety sessions and advising the public on kayak safety from 3pm.

RNLI media contact
For more information contact Eleri Roberts, RNLI Press Officer on 01745 585162 / 07771 941390 or e-mail Eleri_Roberts@rnli.org.uk.

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The RNLI will provide a lifeguard service on Porthmeor beach in St Ives during the October school half term. In an agreement with Penwith District Council who contribute to the funding of the service, RNLI lifeguards will patrol the popular beach, from Saturday 25 October to Sunday 2 November, providing locals and visitors to the area with the option of choosing a lifeguarded beach. 

Three RNLI lifeguards will patrol Porthmeor beach from 10 am until 5pm, working alongside the volunteer RNLI lifeboat crew at St Ives to help ensure people can enjoy the coast, in and around St Ives in safety.

Steve Instance, RNLI Lifeguard Inspector says;

‘Its not uncommon to enjoy a spell of good weather in October as we saw at the start of the month, and the school half term week is usually a busy one in Cornwall. We are pleased that Penwith District Council have recognised that with wetsuits and surf equipment still readily available to hire, there is a growing trend towards people using the water later in the year.  By funding an RNLI lifeguard service on Porthmeor, which is popular with both surfers and people visiting the town, for this week, the RNLI and Penwith District Council can ensure there is a lifeguarded beach for locals and visitors to use in safety.

The RNLI lifeguards are also providing safety patrols on Perranporth and Praa Sands beaches thanks to funding provided by Perranzabuloe Parrish Council and Kerrier District Council.’

Arthur Roberts, Head of Operational & Technical Services and Deputy Chief Executive at Penwith District Council says;

‘I am delighted that Penwith District Council has been able to identify funding to provide additional RNLI lifeguard cover on Porthmeor beach during October half term.  We would encourage anyone wishing to visit a beach during this time to make sure they act safely and responsibly by going to a beach where there are lifeguards present’

The RNLI’s website, www.rnli.org.uk/beachsafety has plenty of practical advice and tips on how to stay safe. For information on your chosen beach, please visit www.goodbeachguide.co.uk

Notes to editors

· Please find a picture of St Ives volunteer lifeboat crew and lifeguards, please credit Phil Monkton
· RNLI lifeguards will patrol Porthmeor, Praa Sands and Perranporth beaches in Cornwall from 10am until 5pm from 25 October to Sunday 2 November. 

· The RNLI is a registered charity, which exists to save lives at sea. It relies on voluntary contributions and legacies to ensure its lifeguards and volunteer crews have the very best training and equipment.

· Each year it costs the RNLI charity £450 to equip and £900 to train each of its lifeguards. The local authority or beach owner contributes to the wages of the lifeguards which enables the RNLI to provide safety cover.

RNLI media contacts For more information please contact RNLI lifeguard Press Officer Amy Caldwell on 07920 818 807 or acaldwell@rnli.org.uk
 
RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

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OFCOM’s consultation on including Administered Incentivised Pricing for the maritime and aeronautical sectors published 30 July 2008

OFCOM has proposed new charges (Administered Incentivised Pricing or spectrum pricing) for VHF land-based radio licences, and published a consultation document about its proposal, a summary of which can be found at: http://www.ofcom.org.uk/consult/condocs/aip/summary/

 

 

3 October 2008 – RNLI’s response:

The RNLI is concerned that OFCOM is reviewing the charges for the use of radio spectrum and that OFCOM is proposing to introduce a scheme known as Administered Incentivised Pricing.

The RNLI currently pays £40,000 in licence fees annually to OFCOM for the use of radio channels in our station/boathouse radios, lifeguard radios, launching vehicles and pager system. Under OFCOM’s new pricing proposals this is set to increase by a staggering 600% to £260,000 per annum.

The current fees paid by the RNLI are at a discounted rate of 50%. However, the RNLI strongly maintains that, as a charity, it should not pay anything for the use of radio spectrum when it is used solely for safety and search and rescue (SAR) purposes - particularly as its for the provision of a first class marine rescue service, in order that the Government can meet its internationally agreed SAR obligations. 
 
Ships’ licences are not affected by this consultation and are already free of charge and the RNLI believe that there is a good case for channels used solely for safety and SAR to be made available free of charge to all users.
 
The RNLI is responding to OFCOM to clearly state its case during this consultation period. Additionally the RNLI is encouraging its volunteers to respond as individuals to OFCOM, with particular reference to question 6 on the consultation document, with the thought that nobody should have to pay for any channels that are used for safety and SAR and that charities should not be charged at all for channels they use for safety, SAR, training and other operations, which contribute to the safety of the UK citizen.

 

20 October 2008 – OFCOM’s consultation update

OFCOM published an update to its consultation on AIP for the maritime and aeronautical sectors in which it stated, ‘The RNLI may see its charges fall as a result of our proposal to offer a single, lower-cost licence for multiple users.’ For details, see http://www.ofcom.org.uk/consult/condocs/aip/update201008/

 

21 October – RNLI’s response to OFCOM’s consultation update

'The RNLI welcomes OFCOM's proposal, which will reduce the charity's licensing costs, enabling us to direct those funds towards the RNLI's primary objective of saving lives at sea. Ideally, we would still like to see a 100% discount on radio licensing fees not only for the RNLI, which as a charity is funded entirely by voluntary donations and uses allocated frequencies solely for safety and SAR purposes, but for all organisations, which contribute to the safety and saving of life at sea. However, we appreciate this proposal from OFCOM is a significant improvement on their previous proposal.

‘There have been some reports that this will affect the operations of our lifeboat service. We are pleased to confirm that this is not the case and our lifeboats and volunteers are available to launch as normal to anyone in danger at sea.’

 

30 October – The OFCOM AIP period of consultation closes

During the consultation period, the RNLI sent OFCOM a letter outlining its concerns about the proposals, to which OFCOM has emailed an initial response (31 October). OFCOM confirms it wants to work closely with the RNLI to find a solution and that it will continue the consultation process with the RNLI over the coming months.

 

4 November – RNLI comment as OFCOM AIP consultation period closes:

The RNLI has been greatly encouraged by the supportive response from the public to the situation. People have been responding direct to OFCOM, and a petition, (to protect the RNLI from paying licence fees for using Maritime radio frequencies), has been set up by a supporter on the No. 10 website. Already more than 12000 signatures have been added and its hoped that people will continue to register their support by signing up. Additionally the RNLI has been heartened by the cross-party political support it has received on the AIP issue.

Already OFCOM has outlined some proposals to the RNLI that include a reduction in the charity’s licensing costs. While the charity welcomes these proposals, ideally it would still like to see a complete exemption from AIP or a 100% discount on radio licensing fees not only for the RNLI, which as a charity is funded entirely by voluntary donations and uses allocated frequencies solely for safety and SAR purposes, but for all organisations, which contribute to the safety and saving of life at sea.

However, the RNLI appreciates their offer is a significant improvement on the previous proposal. Additionally it’s understood that that OFCOM will continue with a more detailed consultation process and will develop dialogue with the RNLI. Ultimately the matter is now in the hands of OFCOM and we await the outcome of their proposals that will be implemented in April 2009.

RNLI media contacts
For more information please telephone RNLI Public Relations on 01202 336789; or email pressoffice@rnli.org.uk 

RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives.

A charity registered in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SCO37736). Charity number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland

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• Please find attached two pictures.
  1. The Barclays Bank employees before they took the plunge in 2007.
  2. A parachute jump with the Red Devils  

• Minimum sponsorship is £400, from which the RNLI will receive a donation of £110 (plus everything raised over the minimum) from the event organisers, Click & Jump.

• The RNLI is a registered charity, which exists to save lives at sea. It relies on voluntary contributions and legacies to ensure its lifeguards and volunteer crews have the very best training and equipment.

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• Bradleys charity open day will be held at Gallinas Point Apartments in St Ives, on Saturday 25 October from 11am until 3pm. The St Ives Mayor will officially open the development at 1pm. If you or a representative would like to attend, please contact Sara Cynddylan at Bradleys on 01736 793300

• Please find a picture of RNLI lifeguard attached. Credit Dave Nicoll

• The RNLI is a registered charity, which exists to save lives at sea. It relies on voluntary contributions and legacies to ensure its lifeguards and volunteer crews have the very best training and equipment.

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Twenty-five Wells RNLI crew volunteers and Yarmouth Coastguard took part in an exercise assessing Coastwatch volunteers so that their facility can become an official part of the coastal search and rescue organisation.

Conditions couldn’t be more perfect: a wet, blustery Sunday morning ideal for an exercise like this.  Eight volunteers from the Wells Coastwatch, who from their lookout tower, act as ‘eyes and ears’ above the beach. 

Yesterday (Sunday October, 5th) they were assessed for Declared Facility Status (DFS), which is awarded by the coastguard and is an exacting standard for the identification of a problem at sea or on the foreshore and the accurate transmission of the required information to the relevant rescue authority.

The Coastwatch volunteers had numerous scenarios thrown at them by the lifeboat crew, including a body and debris in the water off the beach, a small fishing boat in distress in the channel, a man overboard situation and finally, just when they thought nothing else could happen, two lifeboat crew pretended to be members of the public cut off by the tide. 

It will be a few days before the team will be officially told whether they have successfully passed but their assessment seemed to go well.

Dennis Woods, Wells Station Management Committee chairman of Coastwatch said, “It has taken two years to reach this position and a lot of hard work by all the committee members as well as the dedication of the watchkeepers and I am proud to be associated with them. Our sincere thanks also go to Wells RNLI, Wells Harbour management and the NCI assessor team for all their help.”

RNLI media contact
For more information please contact John Mitchell, Press Officer, Wells Lifeboat Station 01328 710882 or 07831 103 166

RNLI online
For more information on the Wells lifeboat station please go to www.wellslifeboat.org For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press 

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

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Lifeguard teams at Boscombe were practising radio calls on the west side of Boscombe Pier when they were approached by a man seeking medical attention.

The guards checked him over and, thankfully, no ambulance was required. The gentleman was told to visit his doctor.

Just a few hours later, a woman collapsed near to the lifeguard radio communications room, located on the West Cliff at Bournemouth – meaning lifeguard Joseph Headland was able to quickly respond and ensure she was comfortable. The woman required no further treatment.

The incidents occurred as Dorset lifeguards prepare to return to 12 of Dorset’s busiest beaches this Saturday (4 May), providing safety cover seven days a week from 10am to 6pm over the bank holiday weekend and throughout the summer season. 

Barry Heathfield, RNLI Lifeguard Manager for Dorset, said: ‘Training is an essential part of being a lifeguard, as our main role is to prevent these incidents from occurring. The fact that the lifeguards were able to act swiftly and with confidence is a credit to their training.’

Beachgoers are encouraged to check tide times and local weather forecasts before their visit, and if planning on taking part in any water sports, should ensure that any equipment is in seaworthy condition. If you’re a beginner, it’s important to get lessons in the basics.

In addition, the RNLI’s new Beach Finder app enables users to search the UK for lifeguarded beaches and read up on local hazards. With real-time weather updates from the Met Office, it also removes any doubt over whether to pack the umbrella or the sun cream! The app is available to download for free on Apple or Android devices at www.rnli.org/beach.

ENDS
Notes to editors
• Cover will commence this Saturday (4 May) on the following beaches: Southbourne, Fishermans Walk, Boscombe East & West, Bournemouth East & West, Durley Chine, Alum Chine, Branksome Chine, Shore Road and Sandbanks in Poole.
• Weymouth’s main beach will also commence summer patrols from 4 May.
• Nine additional beaches will be providing cover from 6 July - 8 September inclusive, which are: Highcliffe, Friars Cliff, Avon, Manor Steps, East Cliff, Canford Cliffs, Green Hill, West Bay and Lyme Regis.
• Last year there were almost 3 million visitors to Dorset beaches with the charity’s lifeguards attending 2,168 incidents and assisting 2,347 people, from helping with lost children and minor first aid to more serious incidents.

RNLI media contacts
For more information, contact:
• Lauren Hockey, RNLI Public Relations Officer, on 01202 336195 / 07884 117369 or by email at lauren_hockey@rnli.org.uk