Crewmembers from Helensburgh Lifeboat visited Faslane, to meet with the Queen’s Harbour Master (QHM Clyde).
The visit was aimed at forging closer links between the two groups as much of the Lifeboat’s operating area falls within the Clyde Dockyard Port of Gareloch and Loch Long which QHM Clyde is responsible for.
The RNLI team, which are based at Rhu Marina, also brought along their rescue boat – the “Angus and Muriel MacKay” – an Atlantic 85 craft capable of speeds of 35 knots.
“It’s important that we maintain close relationship with QHM Clyde as often the Helensburgh Lifeboat operates in the Dockyard Port,” said Carrick Roy, Lifeboat Operations Manager.
“Many of our crewmembers also work at the base, with Royal Navy sailors and Ministry of Defence Police Officers volunteering.”
He continued: “Although we currently have a full crew, I would encourage people to come along to the Lifeboat Station on a Sunday if they’re interested.
We train from 10am to 12pm and it’s a great chance to meet some of the crew. No previous experience is required, and all training is provided.
We are also looking for people to assist with fundraising for the RNLI as we rely on donations to enable us to operate.”
Established in 1965, Helensburgh Lifeboat Station is run by a team of around 33 volunteers, many of them Royal Navy personnel and base workers living in the local community.
QHM Clyde exists to ensure safe and orderly passage and activity for all vessels within the waters of the Dockyard Port. Last year the Lifeboat team launched their rescue vessel 30 times, coming to the aid of those in distress.
To find out more about volunteering for Helensburgh Lifeboat, visit: www.helensburgh-lifeboats.org.uk.
