Coastline Magazine - Issue 9 - September 2023

WE

ARE EXHIBITING

VISIT US AT HALL 4 STAND F22

AS I write these words, we’re just into September.

The summer was just as busy for all of us even if the weather wasn’t that seasonal. As well as responding to incidents right across the country at the coast, we were also involved in events ranging from Eurovision to the Royal International Air Tattoo and the Tall Ships Race, His Majesty’s Coastguard was on hand to provide the support and raise the profile of the service.

This edition of the magazine is packed full of all your activity – rescues, exercises, events and so much more.

It lifts my heart to see just how much the coastguard rescue service is at the heart of its communities. We can all read this magazine

and be proud of what we achieve as a coastguard family; share the joys and also reflect on the difficult times we have shared through these past months.

We often talk of the SAR Family and this magazine underpins that theme as it explores the wide variety of what we do as part of that family.

As always, you can catch up with regular features including From the Ops Room and a reflection from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s chaplain, Rev Tom Ebbens.

Thank you again for reading this and for your dedication, support and professionalism to the service of His Majesty’s Coastguard.

Best wishes

Pete

“It lifts my heart to see just how much the coastguard rescue service is at the heart of its communities...”

Pete Mizen HM Coastguard

Photo:AmandaJohnston-Larne&PortmuckCRT

national committee

CHAIRMAN

Stuart Arundel

T: 01507 358446

M: 07963 785981

E: chairman@ coastguardassociation.org.uk

RETIRED OFFICERS REP

Terry Bearpark

M: 07759 015433

E: vicechairman@ coastguardassociation.org.uk

WELCOME to the latest edition of Coastline Magazine – the official digital publication of the Coastguard Association.

It’s fair to say this edition has taken much longer than I’d have liked to get published, but with a significant number of competing demands this year, it’s been unavoidable.

In amongst the chaos of the summer I also managed to squeeze in getting married, but I have a feeling there’ll be more about that particular occasion in the next edition of Cuppa with Claire!

I’m hoping things will now start to settle down however and I can pick up the battle rhythm again and get back to the quarterly editions.

CEO of the Maritime & Coastguard Agency, Virginia McVea on several occasions, with further meetings planned over the coming months to continue to build the partnership and support between both organisations.

On the immediate horizon is the association’s first-ever exhibition at The Emergency Services Show in the NEC in Birmingham on Tuesday 19th and Wednesday 20th September.

If you’re attending the show, be sure to drop by our stand and say hello, and there’ll be plenty of coverage from the show across our social media feeds and in the next edition of Coastline Magazine.

And as always, if you have any stories you want to share or you’d be interested in volunteering some time to support the charity, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Thanks and stay safe out there.

TREASURER

Steve Brookes

T: 07831 140385

E: treasurer@ coastguardassociation.org.uk

The Coastguard Association is the charity dedicated to supporting Coastguard personnel and their families in their time of need. It takes a huge amount of work behind the scenes to make this possible.

Everyone involved does so purely on a voluntary basis, so hopefully you’ll be understanding if it takes a bit longer to get a reply to an e-mail, or Coastline Magazine is later than expected.

KevinPaterson Editor

WELFARE OFFICER

Paul Davig

T: 01964 614837

E: welfare@ coastguardassociation.org.uk

What is always done quickly however is providing the financial support to those who need it. The Coastguard Association prides itself on being able to quickly get support to those in need within a matter of days.

The Coastguard Association is very much continuing on its transformational journey and I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with the new

NATIONAL SECRETARY

Jo Howard

M: 07969 070838

E: secretary@ coastguardassociation.org.uk

FROM THE CHAIRMAN

I WOULD like to welcome you all to this the edition of Coastline Magazine.

PUBLIC RELATIONS

Matt Cox

M: 07807 790665

E: pr@coastguardassociation.org.uk

COASTLINE MAGAZINE

Kevin Paterson

M: 07889 816772

E: CoastlineMagazine@ coastguardassociation.org.uk

The next couple of years are going to be exciting for the Association. We have undertaken a phased strategy of raising the profile of the Association with all stakeholders and particularly within the Senior management of Maritime & Coastguard Agency. We would particularly like to thank the new Chief Executive of the MCA Virginia McVea for her support of our Association and wish her every success in her new role.

It is our aim to jointly encourage more supporters from within the Service to

interact with the Association and to take advantage of the services we offer. We understand the challenges ahead in evolving the presence of the Association in the everchanging space that is the Charitable sector therefore we are continually developing our management and profile

to our stakeholders through the more proactive use of both our traditional publication and by continued investment in our online presence .

The Charity has a relatively new core team managing our development strategy and this management committee are committed to seeing continued progress and growth in the activities of the CGA to further extend the reach of the assistance we can offer. We are grateful to our loyal supporters and partners without whose efforts much of our aims would not be possible.

StuartArundel Chairman

DOG WALKERS URGED TO STAY SAFE WHEN AT COAST

AWALKER who was rescued from a cliff-face after trying to retrieve a dog which went over the edge has urged people in the same situation to call the Coastguard instead.

A HM Coastguard rope rescue team brought Josie and pet Marley to safety during the incident in June at Falling Sands, near Beachy Head, East Sussex.

She has praised her rescuers and advised dog walkers to keep safe and resist the temptation to get involved in what can be dangerous situations.

Josie explained how the incident began: “We were walking down from the very top of the Downs after being off-lead for about an hour when Marley just took-off across the large grassy fields toward the cliff, completely ignoring all recalls.

“The hill was steep where we descended, so I had planned to put Marley’s lead on when the ground levelled out, still around 200 metres away from the edge. When I arrived at the edge, I saw he had tumbled about 40 metres down the cliff onto a large plateau and was working hard to try and find a way back up to me.

“I was completely shocked that he had covered such a huge distance, across flat ground, prior to reaching the cliff-edge – then gone straight over!”

Josie added: “Because Marley was still close to the top and uninjured, I decided that self-rescue would be the quickest – and least embarrassing – option. I asked an onlooker to keep sight of Marley while I used a well-known access trail to descend a short distance, then I

left the track to find a way across to the plateau where Marley was stranded. When I reached Marley, he was overheating and unable to follow me back out to safety, meaning that all my ‘self-rescue’ had done was set us back over an hour and make the situation more complex.

“I asked the onlooker to call for help, as the steep, unstable ground made it impossible to carry Marly out on my own.”

The alarm was raised at about 10.45am on Sunday 18 June. Ropes were set up at the cliff top and rescuers sent down, helping both Josie and Marley ascend to safety by about 12.35pm.

The operation involved Coastguard Rescue Teams from Eastbourne, Newhaven and Birling Gap, with the RNLI’s lifeboats from Eastbourne supporting from the sea below.

Josie said: “After experiencing the care, speed and expertise that the rescue team employed that day, I am confident that Marley would have been retrieved in half the time, had I immediately called 999 and asked for the Coastguard.”

HM Coastguard Officer in Charge Trevor Cutler said afterwards: “Dogs are our fourlegged friends, and we completely understand the instinct to try to save them when they’re in serious trouble, like going over a cliff or getting into difficulty in the sea.

“Going to the aid of a pet can easily create more danger for the person trying to save them, however, so our advice is to stay where you are, keep an eye on the animal, and call 999 and ask for Coastguard.

“Our Coastguard Rescue Teams know what to do and, like this incident at Falling Sands, can make sure dog emergencies end safely without putting human lives at risk too.”

World Drowning Prevention Day

WORLD Drowning Prevention Day took place last Tuesday July 25th - this World Health Organisation day, now in it’s in third year, is becoming increasingly high profile internationally.

It was fantastic to see HM Coastguard take part in various events across the 4 nationscongratulations to all who took part.

The day provides a great opportunity to raise the public awareness of HM Coastguard as a whole, UK wide. Let’s hope we can make it even bigger in 2024!

Below is a selection of events that were attended.

Wales:

Lisa Furneaux from St Govan’s CRT along with Steve Heckler and Tim Rudge from Llansteffan CRT attended a Welsh Water event at Llys Y Fran reservoir in Pembrokeshire. This multiagency event provided great community engagement with water safety equipment displays set up, come and try events and safety advice given.

The event was also attended by Assistant Chief Coastguard Carl Evans and SCOO Marc Lancey.

Scotland:

In Scotland Water Safety Scotland held a Water Safety Open day at The Helix in Falkirk.

Coastguard Rescue Teams attended this large multi-agency day which provided a great setting to engage with the public, particularly on Water Safety Scotland’s key messages.

The event also provided a good opportunity

to engage with our partner agencies - with the RNLI’s Stormy Stan visiting the stand for a chat!

England:

In Liverpool as part of WDPD …. CRTs provided throwline training to 40 members of Merseyside Police and 12 members of Liverpool City Council City watch patrols. This training provided practical training and also provided a very good opportunity to build relationships with partner agencies in Merseyside.

CROs also set up a stall alongside Merseyside Fire and Rescue to engage with the public, raise awareness of the day and to hand out key safety messages to the public. Well done to COAC Mike Buratti for putting this training together.

Rhyl Coastguard Rescue Team as seen above joined North Wales Fire and Rescue at Rhyl Fire Station as they lit up their station blue to mark World Drowning Prevention day. Brilliant photo!

In Northern Ireland, Community Safety Policy Lead, Richard Wasson joined the RNLI’s education team at a World Drowning Prevention Day event at Queens University.

The proprietor of a training business based at Queens ‘floated to live’ for 9 hours in the pool!

This was to raise money for the RNLI and also to raise awareness of WDPD. This challenge provoked substantial public interest and some very positive public relation conversations were had.

It was great to continue building very positive relationships with our counterparts at the RNLI.

Data was also captured during the challenge that will be used by drowning researchers to further understand the physiology of floating for a long period of time.

Social Media Highlight

The social media highlight for World Drowning Prevention Day was the Call, Tell, Throw post as below - at the time of writing this post has gained an amazing 114,831 impressions across all platforms - well done to all in contributing to make this post such a big success.

GRAMMAR SCHOOL EMERGENCY SERVICE DEMO

DUNOON Coastguard Rescue Team took part in a hugely successful multi-agency demonstration at Dunoon Grammar School in May as part of the school’s Citizens Day. Each year, the school organises an awareness event for S2 pupils, introducing them to the work of the emergency services.

The theme of this year was focussed on water safety with all emergency services and partners coming together to raise awareness of

this important topic. The first day of the event included inputs to pupils from the emergency services, with day two being a practical water rescue exercise involving HM Coastguard, Police Scotland and the Scottish Ambulance Service.

Speaking about the event, a spokesperson for Dunoon Coastguard Rescue Team, said: “We are privileged to have been part of the day and glad to have been part of a successful exercise

bringing local emergency services together for the benefit of the community.

“Particular thanks to Mrs Thomson, PC Quinn and paramedic Mark Turnbull who arranged fantastic support from the local team.

“Most importantly - thank you to all the pupils who took an active part in Citizens Day. We were blown away by some of the questions asked and genuine enthusiasm shown by the pupils over the two days.”

Shetland welcomes The Tall Ships Races

THE Tall Ships Races arrived in Shetland in July in the days prior HM Coastguard was busy providing safety cover and looking after crews and visitors.

The Coastguard’s Emergency Towing Vessel (ETV) has also been taking part in the festivities, docked and ready to be explored.

Talking about the first day of Tall Ships, Counter Pollution and Salvage Officer Paul Tunstall said: “HM Coastguard’s ETV Ievoli Black proved busy for the crew with more than 120 people taking the opportunity to tour the open vessel.

“Questions were varied from visitors, but it was clear that the role of an ETV was fully understood, as well as its patrol area and the importance of her presence in Scottish waters. The complimentary pizza on the bridge also proved a hit, particularly with the youngsters.”

The Ievoli Black also played a key role out at sea for the commencement of the Parade of Sail.

Throughout the event she remained at her usual 30-minute readiness to respond to any incident.

AWARDS PRESENTED IN AREA 4

A NUMBER of prestigious awards were presented to staff and volunteers from Area 4 Area Commander Robbie Robertson, Senior Coastal Operations Officers Joe Mitchell and Callum McNicoll and South Queensferry Station Officer John Maitland were all presented with Chief Coastguard Commendations for their role in the multi-agency response to the Stonehaven Rail Incident.

The commendations were presented on behalf of the Chief Coastguard by Divisional Commander Sue Todd. Another well-deserved award was presented

to volunteer Coastguard Rescue officer Billy Boyle from South Queensferry Coastguard Rescue Team.

For his part in an emergency incident working closely with members of Queensferry Lifeboat and the Scottish Ambulance Service, Billy was presented with the Divisional Commander’s Award for Meritorious Conduct by Chief Superintendent Derek McEwan, Police Scotland Divisional Commander for Fife Division.

Massive congratulations to everyone on their awards.

LONG SERVICE PRESENTATION

CONGRATULATIONS to Vessel Traffic Services Operator (VTSO) Alex Liddon on passing 20 year’s of service with HM Coastguard.

Alex started at MRCC Yarmouth in 2003 before transferring to Dover in 2011. Alex first got involved with HM Coastguard for his community service element of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and then spent time as a volunteer with Lowestoft Coastguard Rescue Team.

Alex is pictured above receiving his 20 Year Long Service Medal by Assistant Chief Coastguard John Craig.

Congratulations from everyone at The Coastguard Association.

Dolphins stranded

BANGOR Coastguard Rescue Team was tasked along with Portaferry Coastguard Rescue Team and two Senior Coastguard Officers to reports of an adult dolphin and her calf, who were beached near Castle Espie.

The team arrived on scene and proceeded to provide assistance and safety cover to members of British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) Northern Ireland, who were already on scene evaluating the condition of both Dolphins.

Both Dolphins were successfully helped back into the lough on the incoming tide and swam away together.

Teams respond to light aircraft crash

PORT Taltbot Coastguard Rescue Team was tasked alongside Porthcawl Coastguard Rescue Team and Porthcawl RNLI in June following a mayday call from a light aircraft.

The light aircraft had ditched into the sea in Porthcawl with the one person on board thankfully managing to escape to safety.

The team liaised with the pilot before they made their way to hospital as a precaution.

The Coastguard Rescue Teams then returned to the scene the following day to provide safety cover as the aircraft was being recovered from the shoreline.

Multi-agency

ON a beautiful May evening, Area 4 teams Dunoon and Rothesay CRT met with Kames Coastguard Rescue Team for familiarisation training with Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 199, along with the RNLI Tighnabruaich Lifeboat, which is stationed just along from Kames.

These three teams are Area 4s most remote, with our SCOO being a ferry ride away from all of us.

Rothesay are stationed on the Isle of Bute, a ferry crossing and 20 minute drive from the other teams. Dunoon and Kames are on the Cowal peninsula, about 45 minutes drive from each other. Being so remote can sometimes make callouts slightly more challenging, interesting or just plain odd!

In Kames, we’re lucky to have the lifeboat so close with family members in both agencies, but the nearest police and ambulance are based in Dunoon, so we often have a long wait for other resources to arrive on scene.

training night

By Kate McManus - Kames CRT

and learned a lot. We often work with the lifeboat in terrible weather or in the middle of the night, so to get to know the crew and where to position ourselves onboard if we had to accompany a casualty was invaluable. Plus it was an amazing evening to be out on the water with the dolphins in the beautiful Kyles of Bute.

Many thanks to our SCOO, Paul Renfrew, for arranging the training. Dunoon and Kames train together regularly, but rarely get the opportunity to meet Rothesay, so this was a great opportunity to train together in person.

And as for the helicopter?

The following night, Kames CRT had a callout with Rescue 199 and the same crew we would have met the night before.

The teams worked together seamlessly and we hope we will get another chance to train with them soon.

Technical rope rescue training

DALE Coastguard Rescue Team joined colleagues from St Davids Coastguard for a joint technical rope rescue training session.

Posting on their social media pages, HM Coastguard Dale, said: “Rope rescue is one of the main specialisms for Coastguard Rescue Teams. It involves specialist equipment and knowledge to ensure everybody’s safety at all times.

“It is essential that we practice these skills to ensure we are able to help those in need day or night.”

It’s been a few years since the Kames team last had familiarisation with Rescue 199, as previous trainings were often cancelled at short notice when the helicopter was called away to an emergency, normally when it was in sight of the landing area!

And unfortunately for our teams and the lifeboat, the same thing happened again this time.

To make the most of all the teams being gathered together, the lifeboat crew saved the day and the teams got a tour of their station, and a thorough examination and explanation of all the equipment they have on-board, before being taken out on the boat.

We still had a fantastic nights training

TWO PEOPLE RESCUED IN MULTI-AGENCY RESPONSE

Working together to counter pollution

AFOUR-DAY counter-pollution exercise will bring together the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and partners in the Port of Tyne.

The exercise will be led by the MCA’s counter-pollution and salvage team, backed by national response contractors Ambipar and with other pollution-response partner agencies in support and as observers. Responders will be operating in some areas of the docks along the River Tyne and by the beach at Littlehaven from 11-14 July, training and rehearsing their plans by tackling a dummy oil spill.

Coastguard Rescue Teams and the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre at Humber will be in action as well as a

fixed-wing HM Coastguard surveillance aircraft, based at Humberside airport.

The aim of the exercise is to test counter-pollution equipment on the water, including a variety of floating booms, skimmers and storage tanks used for oil spill incidents.

Nicola Davies, HM Coastguard Counter Pollution and Salvage Officer, said: “When pollution threatens our shores, it is HM Coastguard’s counter-pollution and salvage teams’ responsibility to assume the lead for atsea pollution response from shipping or unknown sources.

“Where pollution occurs within a harbour this responsibility sits with the statutory harbour authority who may be supported by the counter-pollution and

salvage team, if required.”

She added: “It takes practice to ensure an effective response operation which is why the public might see activity from 11-14 July on the River Tyne as we rehearse our procedures and trial new equipment.

“We’re hoping to iron out any issues and strengthen our teamwork with partner agencies so we stand ready at all times to tackle pollution in UK waters.”

Alan Feast, Port of Tyne Harbour Master, added: “This is an excellent opportunity for us to work alongside the national response team.

“The Port of Tyne is able to provide suitable shore and marine facilities in which to train personnel and test their large response equipment.”

HM Coastguard, Northumberland Fire & Rescue Service, Northumbria Police and the North East Ambulance Service responded to two person struggling in the water at the Queen Elizabeth II Country Park Lake on Thursday 27th July.

Coastguard Rescue Officers entered the water and rescued the two casualties, recovering them back to the shore into the care of the Police and the Ambulance Services.

S afety appeal after sand hole rescue

AFATHER has urged people to take care digging on the beach after his 14-year-old son became trapped when a pile of excavated sand collapsed on top of him.

Teenager Warren Gant was instantly pinned beneath the surface during a family visit to the beauty spot of Anderby Creek, on the Lincolnshire coast.

Dad Paul Gant said: “My youngest spotted the collapsing sand and shouted. We looked and could just see the top of Warren’s hair. It was quite worrying; there was a bit of panic.

“What none of us had realised was how far he had dug in such a short time.”

Paul, from Ilkeston in Derbyshire, had arrived for a spring day at the beach with Warren, wife Debbie, younger son Liam (13), and their dog on Saturday 8 April.

The boys were digging separately just yards from their parents when Warren’s pile of sand suddenly shifted and fell on top of him, the weight of it pinning him in a seated position, almost entirely covered.

Paul continued: “I have done a lot of first aid through my involvement with Scouting over the years and knew we had to get his airway clear.

“My youngest scooped the sand from Warren’s face and within 30 seconds we had moved enough so he had a clear airway.

“We tried to clear the sand but it was just causing it to slide back down again. We were just trying to dig as quickly as we could.

“We called for help and people came over to help us. I dialled 999 and asked for the Coastguard – they were there in about 15 minutes, which was pretty good going for such an isolated location.”

Coastguard Rescue Teams from Skegness and Mablethorpe responded along with Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service, and East Midlands Ambulance Service.

HASTINGS BANK HOLIDAY RESCUE

Sand rescues must be carried out gently to avoid adding pressure around the trapped casualty and ensure they can breathe.

Rescuers sweep back the sand, often by hand or with spades, taking care to avoid causing injury. They are backed by a second line of support moving the excavated material further away to stop it sliding back in.

Less than an hour after Paul’s 999 call at about 12.40pm, Warren was pulled from beneath approximately 4ft of sand – to the great relief of his parents – and checked over by paramedics.

He was cold but remained calm throughout, said Paul, and was otherwise none the worse for his ordeal.

Paul said: “We were surprised that this could happen. We have been to the beach many times and have always dug holes –teenage boys will dig holes, that’s what they do! We were just surprised Warren dug so deep so quickly.

“He’s not been scared by this in any shape

or form. He will dig another hole but he will dig in a slightly more risk-conscious way, and we will be more aware.”

Tom Sharp, Senior Coastal Operations Officer for Mablethorpe, Skegness, Wrangle and Sutton Bridge, added his voice to Paul’s advice for people to take care.

Tom said: “Grabbing your beach spade to dig holes in the sand is great fun for children and adults. It’s a very British tradition enjoyed by lots of people all around our coast – we certainly don’t want to stop that.

“All we ask is for beach-goers to pause and consider whether the hole they dig might be a bit risky for little ones or themselves, and to fill them in before you go home so no one has an accident.

“Sometimes those holes just end up too deep and pose risks of collapse or people falling in – particularly children who are too small to get out safely or could be completely covered with sand.”

Photo: Paul Gant

A FATHER, son and four dogs became cut off by the tide in Hastings during the April bank holiday.

Coastguard Rescue Teams from Hastings, Bexhill and Rye all attended along with the Duty Coastal Officer and undertaking a technical rope rescue.

Senior Coastal Operations Officer Mike Kerley said: “This challenging incident had a great outcome due to the professionalism and teamwork of the Coastguard Rescue Teams.

PARTNERSHIP APPROACH TO KEEPING COASTEERING SAFE

HM COASTGUARD and coasteering groups in Cornwall joined forces to learn more about coasteering –exploring a coastline through climbing and swimming - and what can happen during a rescue.

The training session was an opportunity for different groups to learn about the work of the Coastguard, in particular rope rescue, while learning how to ensure coasteering remains as safe as possible for all.

Taking place at Benoath Cove at the end of June, members of Polzeath, Boscastle and Bude Coastguard Rescue Teams, representatives from the National Coasteering Charter (NCC) and a number of owners and instructors from local coasteering businesses joined the session.

The evening started with a talk led by the NCC and Coastguard, followed by a question and answer session. Representatives from the NCC and coasteering instructors then entered the water, as the Coastguard teams lowered a number of technicians down to them via rope.

The Coastguard teams then demonstrated how they would recover a casualty using the rope system and how best they could help in that situation. Finally, the teams relocated to the cliff top to talk through cliff top set up and recovery methods.

Polzeath Coastguard Station Officer

Condolences

Shaun Hawkey said: “The idea of the session was to familiarise everyone with the working practice of both HM Coastguard and the NCC. The session really gave us insight on the types of coasteering incidents we may get called to.

“We were able to give the coasteering community a better understanding of our safety procedures, response times, resources and how we operate, as well as how we perform a rope rescue.

“This was a brilliant and informative evening that was really helpful for everyone that attended. These sessions are so important in making sure everyone knows what to do if there’s a coasteering emergency, in or out of the water.”

Photos: Cai Wagget, Bude CRT

THE Coastguard Association sends its deepest condolences following the news Robert Zimmerman, Deputy Station Officer at Rothesay Coastguard Rescue Team, has passed away.

Robert served with Rothesay Coastguard Rescue Team for 40 years and during his extensive time with HM Coastguard, served with over 50 Coastguard Rescue Officers and seven Sector Managers/Senior Coastal Operations Officers.

Robert served HM Coastguard with distinction and pride and the Rothesay team have lost an experienced team member, a valued colleague and a dear friend.

Our thoughts are with Robert’s immediate and extended family, friends, colleagues and his team mates in Rothesay and across Area 4.

THE Coastguard Association sends its deepest condolences following the recent passing of retired Coastguard Rescue Officer Eric Rippon Lorrains.

Eric retired three years having served for 50 years with the Skinningrove Coastguard Rescue Team, including a lengthy period as Station Officer in charge of the team.

Throughout his extensive Coastguard career, Eric received multiple awards including the Royal Humane Society Bronze Medal for Courage after assisting in the rescue of the crew from the Admiral von Tromp, a trawler that ran aground in Saltwick Bay near Whitby.

In a fitting send-off, Eric’s life was celebrated and he was laid to rest at Kirkleatham Crematorium near Redcar on 20th July 2023 with a Coastguard escort and full Coastguard colours.

CALLOUT AFTER BEACON ALERT

A COASTGUARD call out on Thursday 25th May has highlighted the importance of being prepared for any emergency while out on your vessel.

HM Coastguard investigated an activated beacon alert in the Ilfracombe area earlier today. Receiving the alert at around 9.30am, the Coastguard helicopter from St Athan and Ilfracombe lifeboat were sent to conduct searches of the area.

Once the beacon was located it was confirmed to be a false alarm.

The beacon belonged to the mariner of a vessel that sunk earlier this week. The Coastguard responded to reports of a sinking vessel on 22 May, and the two people on-board were rescued by Ilfracombe all weather and inshore lifeboats, following a 999 call and use of VHF radio.

It was not until yesterday and today that the Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) activated. Because the mariner had at least two separate and independent devices on-board they were able to raise an alarm and contact the Coastguard.

George O’Keefe, Tactical Commander, said: “It is so important to have multiple means of raising a distress alert when on the water.

“If this vessel did not have VHF radio and an EPIRB on board, the incident may not have had such a successful outcome.

“No one wants to be in an emergency situation but that does not mean your vessel should not be equipped. If in danger, knowing how to use your VHF radio and having EPIRBs and personal locator beacons on-board are just some of the ways you can help the Coastguard to locate you much faster.”

COASTGUARD TESTED IN RIVER THAMES EXERCISE

LONDON Coastguards were put to the test in a major search and rescue exercise on the River Thames involving boats, mud crews and a helicopter.

The team joined other blue light services in a dummy response to someone entering the water from Erith Deep Water Pier in Bexley, south-east London – dubbed Exercise Mudlark.

Taking part were personnel from RNLI Gravesend, marine units from the London Fire Brigade and Metropolitan Police, and a helicopter from the National Police Air Service London.

The activity on Thursday 8 June challenged services to work together to save a single casualty jumping from the jetty, in a tidal area with risks including mud and river currents. Paul Whitehead, HM Coastguard Senior Maritime Operations Officer in London, said: “Exercise Mudlark was an excellent way, in a controlled situation,

to test and update our preparedness for someone going into the water, one of the most common incidents we deal with alongside fellow emergency services.

“Regular team training can only improve the speed and efficiency of life saving on the river and develop best practice for on-scene communications and strategies.”

He added: “All the staff involved may come from different organisations, but we very much share the mind-set of one team for one purpose: making London’s River Thames a safer place for all.

“Everyone came away from today’s exercise with some lessons learnt or skills honed as well as strengthening the team bond.”

Further exercises are planned by London emergency services throughout the year along all sections of the river.

If you see an emergency on the River Thames, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

HORNSEA Coastguard Rescue Team worked alongside East Riding Leisure to support this year’s Drowning Prevention Week.

The Hornsea Hub took delivery of a range of coastal and water safety information including posters, information leaflets and activity books.

Coastguard Rescue in heart of Edinburgh City

SOUTH Queensferry Coastguard was tasked to assist Scottish Ambulance Service Special Operations Response Team (SORT) with a medical evacuation up on the dramatic Arthur’s Seat, situated in the heart of Edinburgh’s city centre some 250mtrs above sea level.

The team’s initial tasking was to RV with SAS Sort near the summit area after reports of a person who had fallen from some of the steep Craigs. As Scottish Fire rescue did not have an available rope rescue team, South Queensferry Coastguard were requested to assist.

Additional teams from Fisherrow, North Berwick and Dunbar were tasked along with a Senior Coastal Operations Officer and Rescue Helicopter 199 based at Prestwick

Prior to our rope gear being deployed Rescue 199 arrived on scene and was able to safely winch their paramedic down and successfully rescue the casualty and thereafter proceeding directly to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.

PRAISE AFTER CANOEIST RESCUED

ACANOEIST had a lucky escape when he was plucked from the water late at night thanks to the combined efforts of HM Coastguard, the RNLI, ferry crew and a member of the public.

Everyone involved in the successful rescue was praised by Coastal Operations Area Commander Tom Wright, who said the casualty was lucky to be alive after falling out of his canoe in the dark.

Tom said: “The situation that night – in the dark, with cold water and a tiring casualty –could easily have ended in tragedy without the support of the public and the professional response of HM Coastguard and the RNLI.”

The alarm was sounded shortly before 11pm when a dog walker on a beach within Poole Harbour, Dorset, spotted a man shouting for help and struggling to hold onto his craft, near the marina by Lake Pier.

The witness dialled 999 and asked for the Coastguard, who dispatched an inshore lifeboat from the RNLI’s Poole base as well as Coastguard Rescue Teams from Poole and Kimmeridge.

As they headed to the scene, the dog walker called out encouragement and reassurance to the exhausted canoeist that help was on the way, urging him to fight and stay afloat.

The commotion was also picked up by crew on Condor Ferries’ high-speed trimaran

Liberation, which helped with the Mayday relay and offered to send their fast rescue boat.

Within 30 minutes of the alarm being raised the casualty, who not wearing live saving equipment, was located, lifted into the RNLI lifeboat and taken back to base in Poole.

There he was greeted by the town’s coastguard team and a South Western Ambulance Service team who took him to hospital.

Tom said: “We are so grateful for the help

of the dog walker who stayed on the phone with us and kept the casualty’s spirits up, and for the crew of Liberation for offering their assistance.

“We urge anyone taking to the water to wear life-saving equipment and take a phone in a waterproof case – it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

“But if things do go wrong at sea or on the coast, we are here to help. Dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard, we’ll know what to do.”

HM Coastguard’s pivotal role in delivering a successful Eurovision

IN May, the eyes of the world were in Liverpool for the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest.

The nine-day event, which saw in excess of half a million people descent on Liverpool, passed off safely and without any major incidents.

HM Coastguard played a key role in the multi-agency operation to ensure both residents and visitors alike remained safe in the coastal city during the event.

A specially created Coastguard Rescue Team was patrolling the waterfront on a daily basis, ready to respond to anyone in need –whether that is rescue help, or information about water safety.

HM Coastguard Area Commander Mike Buratti said: “As a proud scouser, I know that Liverpool is really proud to host Eurovision on behalf of Ukraine this year and, given the location at the waterfront, it has been essential that the expertise of our teams has been available.

“We are working with our partner agencies in the emergency services to ensure we keep people safe and a specially created Coastguard Rescue Team has been patrolling the waterfront all week, and will continue over the weekend.

“The city is currently visible on the world’s stage and HM Coastguard is on hand to ensure the many visitors will be safe.”

Paul Ambrose from Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team, said: “It was a privilege to have been selected as one of the HM Coastguard Eurovision Patrol Team. Having only watched the final the odd time on the telly, I had no idea the scale of Eurovision. We had an online Teams meeting/briefing with Area Commander, Mike Buratti, a few weeks before the event start date. I was shocked at the size and length of the event.

“We had a Coastguard team on duty for the nine days duration. As Liverpool is a major port and the River Mersey runs right along the main location it made perfect sense for

HM Coastguard to play such a crucial part supporting Eurovision. Liverpool also has a large dock system that runs through the main event village.

“During our daily patrols we engaged with members of the public from around the world and posed for the odd selfie, we offered water safety advice when needed and also explained the role of HM Coastguard when asked by interested public.

“The highlight for me was at the end of each shift, when the public were leaving the arena, and people would often stop and say, “thanks for being here” or “thanks for keeping us safe”. This was really nice and made the 20,000 plus walking steps per shift worthwhile.

“I also enjoyed working with Coastguard Rescue Officers from different teams, it highlighted how we can all work together due to having the same national training and equipment.

“A well-planned event which gave HM Coastguard some great publicity.

EUROVISION 2023

Coastguard Rescue Officer, Chris Stott, said: “As a CRO with Wirral CRT, I took part in two shifts supporting the Eurovision event. Both shifts were long days, with lots of patrols around the site keeping our step counts up!

“This did provide us with lots of opportunity to meet members of the public, having the opportunity to chat with them about how they were finding Liverpool and Eurovision and to talk about the work of HM Coastguard.

“We work closely our flank teams on our regular incident working, so it was a good opportunity to spend more time with them and continue to get to know the newer members of their team too following some recent recruitment.

“It was good seeing people enjoying

themselves, to be a part of such a big event and knowing you have played a small part in being a part of a team that has helped make it a safe and enjoyable experience for them.”

Chief Superintendent Jonathan Davies said: “Liverpool really has shown the world how to throw a fantastic party.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who visited the city - from across the Merseyside city region, the UK and the whole of Europe - during the nine days for enjoying themselves safely and responsibly and also for positively engaging with our officers on the ground.W

“I would also like to thank all the officers and staff, including mutual aid officers from other forces, who were responsible for

keeping people safe during the event and for our partners, including Liverpool city council, Mersey Fire and Rescue Service, the North West Ambulance Service, British Transport Police, HM Coastguard, FGH Security, Merseytravel and Merseyrail who worked alongside us to organise and staff this fantastic event.

“There were a number of Eurovision events, which were held simultaneously on multiple sites across the city, and very well attended by thousands of people including families and children.

“Eurovision is the biggest policing operation Merseyside Police has ever done but we had a robust policing plan in place for this event and we spent a number of months planning with partners to ensure it went ahead smoothly.

Editor Kevin Paterson sits down with Michael Buratti, former volunteer Coastguard Rescue Officer and now Coastal Operations Area Commander for Area 15 North West and North Wales, to find out more life as an Area Commander and the Coastguard involvement as the eyes of the world were on Liverpool for the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest.

WHEN the news broke that Liverpool had been successful in its bid to host Eurovision 2023 to support last year’s winners Ukraine, few would have imagined HM Coastguard would have such a significant role to play in this music contest with a massive global following.

With HM Coastguard once again front and centre at an event of historic significance, Coastline Magazine couldn’t miss the opportunity to find out more about the planning and delivery for Eurovision 2023.

Name?

Michael Buratti

Length of Service?

Just over two years as a Full Time Officer and 10 years as volunteer Coastguard Rescue Officer (CRO), Deputy Station Officer (DSO) and Station Officer (SO) at Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team

What attracted you to join the Coastguard? It was 2007, I used to help run a Duke of Edinburgh programme that was ran by Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, my previous employer.

One of the other instructors was also a CRO and asked if I was interested in joining the team. Admittedly, I had never heard of the Coastguard! Intrigued, off I went to the teams next training night.

Liking what I saw, that was it, I was in, as simple as that, my time as a CRO had begun! Needless to say the CRO recruitment process has changed somewhat since those days!

Current role and what does that entail?

I’m currently the Area Commander for Area 15 (North West and North Wales) based in Liverpool.

“What does the role entail” – For some reason I always have to stop and think about this one as the role is so varied, that’s one of the things I love about it! I am responsible and accountable for leadership and management of four Senior Coastal Operations Officers (SCOO) who along with myself, form the Area Management Team.

We have 16 teams across the North West and North Wales, some of which are the busiest in the United Kingdom. I oversee the management of Area 15 to ensure that we are providing an effective operational response.

I liaise closely with partner agencies through local resilience forums and many other multiagency meetings. I have tactical oversight and governance of the Coastguard Rescue Service within Area 15 which stretches from the Scottish Border in Cumbria down to Llandudno in North Wales. I am Water, Mud and Flood Instructor, Flood Lead for the Area and very recently have qualified as a Coastguard Search Advisor.

Day to day, the role can be anything from admin, delivering training, taking part in training/CPD, attending exercises, attending meetings, liaison with other agencies, inspections and of course operational response.

Previous roles and Coastguard history?

At the age of 18, I joined Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service and spent 16 years there in various roles, mainly in Fire and Arson Prevention. My last six years in the Fire Service were spent as a manager within the Fire Prevention department.

Just before I left the Fire Service, I was seconded to the Merseyside Violence Reduction Partnership as Strategic Lead for reducing re-offending.

Having been a CRO, DSO and SO, in 2021, I joined HM Coastguard full time after a SCOO job became available. Having a passion for what HM Coastguard does and loving what I was doing as a volunteer, joining as a Full Time Officer was a no brainer for me!

What has your involvement been in Eurovision?

After a successful bid and on behalf of Ukraine, Liverpool had the honour of hosting Eurovision 2023, one of the biggest media events in the world.

This was announced in October 2022 and at the time, I remember thinking, it’ll be fine, its only one night! How wrong was I!? When the plans were revealed that Liverpool was going all out and it would be 9 days of events taking place on the Liverpool waterfront, I knew HM Coastguard were going to play a big part.

My role in the early stages was to form part of the multi-agency group compiling the water safety and search and rescue plan.

This involved months of planning and many meetings to fine tune what the plan would look like and to formulate what HM Coastguards deployment would look like. I was also HM Coastguards Silver Commander for the event which meant coordinating our overall tactical response.

What role did HM Coastguard play during the Eurovision event?

HM Coastguard were a big part of the water safety and search and rescue plan from the offset.

With hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world set to descend on the Liverpool waterfront, I knew very early on that I wanted HM Coastguard there, front and centre, being proactive and keeping all those visitors safe when visiting our wonderful city.

What assets did HM Coastguard deploy for Eurovision?

The beauty about being a national emergency service and the fact that we train all our volunteers to the same standard meant that I was able to bring together CRO’s from different teams and form a ‘virtual’ Coastguard Team that I could dedicate to Eurovision.

This enabled surrounding Coastguard Rescue Teams to remain operationally available.

This team, equipped with water rescue, search and casualty care kit, allowed me to put

“With hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world set to descend on the Liverpool waterfront, I knew very early on that I wanted HM Coastguard there...”

a patrol team on duty every day and into the night to patrol the event site at the Pier Head and around the Liverpool docks.

I also utilised Area 15’s Rescue Water Craft, normally based at Arnside in Cumbria. This was our brand-new craft, yet to go operational at Arnside Coastguard Rescue Team. What an event to showcase it at!

The RWC patrolled the Liverpool docks every day, ensuring the safety of the public and was ready to respond should someone enter that water.

We also had a Silver Commander on duty each day, co-located with partner agencies within a command centre, as well as a Bronze Commander and Logistics/Support Officer on the ground.

Was the size of this event significant and what challenges did this present/how were they overcome?

This was a significant event, far bigger than I ever imagined and to put it into perspective, this was the biggest policing operation ever to be undertaken by Merseyside Police.

Post event figures released show that 500,000 people attended the events over the nine day period, a phenomenal number, and significantly more than expected! As you can imagine, there were many challenges faced on the run up to this event, far too many to talk about however what I will say is that the robust multi-agency approach meant than any challenges that were presented were quickly overcome.

Liverpool is a unique environment – what were the challenges and key considerations from a Coastguard perspective?

Our key considerations and challenges were that hundreds of thousands of visitors were going to be heading to the waterfront and around the docks, add in the utter excitement of Eurovision, nice weather plus alcohol – the risk of someone entering the water, inadvertently or deliberately was quite high.

From the offset, we set out to deliver a safe and secure event in Liverpool, working alongside our partner agencies, which we absolutely did.

Was there any additional training or exercises conducted prior to Eurovision?

We are fortunate that all our CROs are trained to the same standard, so no additional training was required.

Liverpool City Council transformed the Pier Head into a fan zone which was unfamiliar territory to HM Coastguard staff and volunteers given the new layout, security barriers and hostile vehicle mitigation measures so a bit of familiarisation in the early days of the deployment was needed.

I attended the table top exercise alongside partner agencies and the BBC. This was essential and enabled us to talk through a whole host of potential scenarios.

How well has the Coastguard integrated into the multi-agency approach to Eurovision?

We were involved right from the beginning. Multi-agency working is a bit of passion of mine so I was already well integrated into all the right groups and partnerships on Merseyside. When news broke that Liverpool’s bid was successful, the focus of those multi-agency groups turned to Eurovision.

Were there any key learning points to take away for future large-scale events?

The event was exceptionally successful and went without significant incident however there is always room for learning. Time was not on our side on this occasion with only 6 months to plan such a large-scale event.

Early planning involving all relevant agencies is key. Get the right people from the right agencies around the table and you can achieve amazing things.

Out with work, how do you escape from work pressures to look after your own wellbeing? Would it be ironic to say I like to spend time on the coast? I live on the Wirral so surrounded by a wonderful coastline, so we do tend to head to the coast quite often.

I like to spend time with family and friends and go for nice meals out.

What advice would you give to anyone considering a career with HM Coastguard? Go for it, you won’t regret it, I certainly didn’t. Roles within HM Coastguard are so varied and rewarding.

No two days are the same and you get to work with some amazing, like-minded people, not only from within, but from other agencies too. If you are interested in being part of a busy emergency service and you are prepared to work hard, HM Coastguard may just be the organisation for you!

What advice would you give to anyone considering volunteering with their local Coastguard Rescue Team?

Having been there, seen it, done it and got the t-shirt (or overalls), I can categorically say being a Coastguard Rescue Officer is one of the most rewarding things you can do.

You will be given the training, skills, knowledge and equipment to literally saves lives. You will be part of an emergency service and volunteering on such a diverse coastline, helping people who are often having the worst day of their life and as a Coastguard Rescue Officer, you can absolutely make a difference to that person.

Anyone else you want to throw in?

I would encourage everyone to join the Coastguard Association. I have seen firsthand how the Coastguard Association helped a fellow CRO in their time of need and when they were at their lowest. They literally were amazing!

“This was a significant event, far bigger than I ever imagined and to put it into perspective, this was the biggest policing operation ever to be undertaken by Merseyside Police...”

Bideford Coastguard Rescue Team Area 12 Division 3

BIDEFORD Coastguard Rescue Team is located in the middle of Area 12 and one of only six teams looking after the coast of North Devon.

Bideford CRT went on call for the first time in 2016 following the merge of Instow and Westward Ho Coastguard Rescue Teams.

Westward Ho CRT was a rope team and Instow CRT was a mud team. When the merge happened, Bideford took on all the competencies from both teams.

The team works very closely with the Specialist Rescue team from Devon and Somerset Fire & Rescue Service who are based nearby at Barnstaple Fire Station.

As a team look after a section of Bideford Bay from Peppercombe back up the bay to the mouth of the Taw and Torridge Estuaries, before heading inland to the iron bridge at Bideford (on the river Torridge) and up the river Taw to the long bridge at Barnstaple.

The team currently has 11 active team members with a further two who have recently completed their initial entry training and are now working their way to becoming fully operational.

It’s common for Bideford CRT to work with flanking teams at Hartland and Croyde and on occasions have been tasked along with Croyde Mortehoe and Lynmouth to undertake searches for missing people on the remote and rugged North Devon coastline. Working with partner agencies includes Devon and Somerset Fire & Rescue, RNLI lifeboatgs from Appledore, Clovelly and Ilfracombe and Exmoor Mountain Rescue Team.

One memorable busy day for the team was in August 2021, when Bideford CRT was

originally paged to back up Croyde CRT with a suspected spinal injury on Croyde beach.

As the team arrived on scene, the lifeguards and paramedics were able to carry the casualty to the top of the beach and load them into the waiting ambulance so both teams were stood down. Less than 40 seconds later, the team’s were re tasked to assist Lifeguards on Woolacombe beach with another suspected spinal injury.

Along with Croyde Mobile, the team made their way through busy August traffic between Croyde and Putsborough before driving up to the far end of the beach to Woolacombe slipway to meet with the Lifeguards and assist with care of the casualty and wait for the arrival of paramedics.

Due to the busy workload of the ambulance service over the summer, the team took over casualty care and kept them as comfortable as possible. The Ambulance eventually arrived and the casualty was taken to Hospital.

As the teams were packing up, yet another request came in over the radio reporting five people being swept out to sea back round on Croyde beach. Due to the time the Lifeguards had now finished their shift and had left the beach.

Bideford, Croyde and Mortehoe CRT’s made their way immediately to Croyde. On our arrival a group of local surfers had helped the group ashore and after a quick search of the beach, the teams found the group, checked them over and gave safety advice before being stood down and return to station to restow the trucks.

A day many of the team won’t forget in a hurry!

Sun shines on Cosford Airshow

FOR aviation fans across the country countdown each year to the summer months for the return of the airshow season, and once again this year, HM Coastguard were front and centre at a number of key shows.

Mid-June would see the return of RAF Cosford Air Show, the Royal Air Force’s last remaining At Home Day. As one of the most popular ticketed airshows in the UK, around 55,000 visitors descend into RAF Cosford, home of RAF Engineering, the RAF School of Physical Training and the Defence School of Photography.

On a slightly overcast Sunday morning, I set off from my relatives’ house in Oxfordshire (having arrived from the before) for the 110mile trip to Cosford.

You could be forgiven for thinking a military airshow 80-miles from the nearest beach might seem like an unusual venue to promote coastal and water safety, but with people (including myself) quite literally travelling from far and wide, it’s an ideal opportunity to reach a massive audience.

But with the show featuring a varied mix of displays from international military units and civilian aircraft operators, and an extensive ground-based static display of some iconic military and civilian aircraft, the Coastguard had some serious competition.

With two marked Coastguard Ford Transit support vehicles, an Air Shelter with a range of rescue equipment on display and a Diamond DA62MPP (Multi-Purpose Platform) fixed-wing aircraft on show supported by Coastguard Rescue Officers and full-time staff with a seemingly endless supply of stickers, the Coastguard were a bit hit.

The distinctive red and white S-92A and AW189 Coastguard rescue helicopters are a common site in the skies around the UK, following the transition of UK helicopter search and rescue in 2015. But the fixed-wing aircraft are not quite so common, with the Diamond DA62MPP making its debut static appearance at a UK airshow.

Operated by 2Excel Aviation, the Diamond DA62MPP can be utilised for a wide variety of special missions for HM Coastguard including search and rescue, counter pollution, fisheries enforcement and supporting law enforcement operations.

This new aircraft adds the most modern technology to 2Excel’s fleet of Special Missions aircraft and is reducing the carbon footprint significantly at the same time. Equipped with the first ever Trakka TC-375 camera and the Diades Marine C-Ranger 200 maritime radar, the aircraft can locate and identify targets at sea most efficiently. The DA62 MPP at loiter speed can achieve mission flight times of up 10 hours and collects the same data as larger platforms at a fraction of the cost.

The aircraft rightly got a lot of attention throughout the show, but so did the dedicated volunteer Coastguard Rescue Officers who spent many hours in the baking sunshine, engaging with the public and promoting coastal and water safety along with full-time colleagues. Like all aspects of aviation, the machines are impressive but more so the people who operate them, especially to help save lives.

Strategically located beside a Wessex Helicopter in RAF search and rescue yellow, the ‘SAR corner’ of the static display had a real mix of cutting-edge technology and aviation nostalgia.

I really enjoy working with other teams and PR events are a brilliant opportunity to not only speak to members of the public but to give safety advice. A lot of people from the Midlands do holiday at the coast so it’s a great opportunity to tell them about the dangers such as rip currents and us of inflatable toys.

I would recommend for any Coastguard Rescue Officers to put themselves forward for any events that are asking for volunteers. You will get to meet other teams and gain experience with meeting the public in a non call-out situation which is very different to what most of us are used to.

Nicola Salt - Aberdfyi Coastguard Rescue Team

Getting the chance to go to Cosford was another valuable experience from my time in the Coastguard.

Being able to chat to members of the public about the great work we do, and the equipment we have to complete the many roles the MCA has, is always enjoyable. Cosford is quite a family orientated show compared to some of the others around the UK, which allowed the team to really spread the ‘999 Coastguard’ message to a whole range of ages.

Having a brand new DA-62 at the show peaked the interest of many of the visitors. The DA-62 has quite an unusual look about it, there certainly wasn’t anything else like it at Cosford this year. Learning it had only been flown into the UK just a few days before was quite a surprise!

As well as being able to chat to the public it’s always great to meet other Coastguard Officers, and Staff from around the country, and as always we all get on really well.

This was only the second year HM Coastguard have had a presence at the RAF Cosford airshow, following its return postpandemic, but once again proved to be a hugely successful and worthwhile venture and hopefully something which HM Coastguard continue to support for years to come.

As an avid aviation enthusiast, RAF Cosford has a unique, family-oriented feel about it which can often be lost at some shows. The huge mix of now-retired aircraft readily available from the co-located RAF Museum, the ability to showcase the engineering and aerospace trades and as the last remaining At Home Day, the show is hugely important not only to the RAF but also to the UK airshow scene and the wider public.

This year’s show also attracted an impressive flying display including the traditional opening by the RAF Falcons parachute display team, the incredible Eurofighter Typhoon, the latestgeneration of RAF airpower with the Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning, the jaw-dropped RAF Chinook helicopter display team, the worldfamous Red Arrows and international support from the Royal Jordanian Falcons and the Patrouille Suisse.

For the aviation enthusiasts however, a key attraction this year was the imminent retirement of the Lockheed Martin C-130J Hercules C4 just days after the show. To mark the farewell of this iconic aircraft type, the RAF Falcons parachute display jumped from one of these aircraft, which in itself is a rarity these days, but marked the last ever time UK military personnel would make a parachute jump from

an RAF operated C-130.

As well as a final farewell flypast by the C-130 to salute the crowd before retiring and heading off into the sunset, there was also an RAF C-130 Hercules operated by 47 Squadron in the static display parked on the western taxiway. Long queues were visible throughout the day as visitors took their opportunity to get one final look inside and walk through this remarkable aircraft type with 56 years of dedicated service.

Like many, I took the time to enjoy the sunshine with the queue slowly getting closer towards the rear ramp and into the aircraft. My final walk through was a very personal moment having been extremely fortunate to fly in an RAF C-130 Hercules many years ago.

In a world where the airshow circuit feels much smaller than in years gone by and the increased costs, demands and availability of aircraft and aircrews brings its own challenges, the team at RAF Cosford done an exceptional job at putting on a great show.

Despite some last-minute display cancellations due to a variety of factors out with the control of the organisers, the vibe throughout the show was extremely friendly and positive, and the post-show content across social media highlights just how important RAF Cosford airshow is to the aviation scene.

Next year’s show is already in the calendar, and we are looking forward to returning in 2024.

Find out more at www.cosfordairshow.co.uk

The RAF Cosford Airshow will return on Sunday 9th June 2024.

Darren Crisp - Littlehampton Coastguard Rescue Team

PREPARING OUR EMERGENCY SERVICES FOR EVERY RESPONSE 500+

CO-LOCATED WITH

FOR YOUR FREE PASS:

THE HOME OF TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION FOR THE EMERGENCY SERVICES

90+ EXHIBITORS 6,000+ PRODUCTS AND SOLUTIONS CPD ACCREDITED CONTENT 4,000+ VISITORS

REGISTER FOR YOUR FREE PASS:

EXPEDITION READY DUFFEL W

HEN it comes to backpacks luggage, there’s one name always look for when adding extensive collection – Osprey.

From its humble in California in 1974 to brand with sustainability at its heart, Osprey literally reach the highest and most remote around the globe daily.

As someone who spends as much travelling as possible and a significant amount or around the water, both in a personal and capacity, Osprey’s latest range of waterproof instantly caught my attention. Not to mention live in Scotland where it seems to rain most

Enter the Osprey Transporter WP

Duffel

And with it arriving just in time for a trip via Dubai, it seemed the perfect opportunity adventure duffel through its paces.

Unwrapping the bag after delivery, the first feature is how little the pack weighs. Anyone a lot of time travelling, especially on budget will be all too aware of luggage allowances. Transporter WP Duffel 70 only weighing 1.12kg, not losing huge amounts of baggage allowance the bag itself, so there’s plenty of weight (and everything you need for your next holiday adventure.

As with all Osprey bags, the Transporter 70 is a premium piece of luggage which obvious the moment you touch it, with shining through across all aspects of the bag. for adventure and expeditions, this pack with simplicity and ease of access in mind. reinforced grab handles at each end make throw around at the airport, passing the bag or throwing it onto a roof rack on your 4x4 vehicle.

The multiple lash points make it exceptionally to secure the pack to just about any mode including land-based vehicles, rafts, canoes,

If you don’t have the luxury of a vehicle spending some time travelling on foot, the two large, adjustable padded straps to wear on your back as a rucksack. There is no which you would usually find on larger but having used the pack as a backpack around for several hours at a time, this didn’t issues whatsoever. The padded straps also have handle to hold them together providing a option for carrying by hand.

The padded straps can also be completely as they’re attached using simple, non-corroding aluminium fittings, although I struggle practical reason for taking these off, but the there.

Access to the pack is via a single,

DUFFEL BAG

backpacks and name which we adding to our Osprey.

beginnings to the global Osprey bags quite remote places of my time amount of time on professional waterproof packs mention the fact I most of the time!

Duffel 70. to Mauritius opportunity to put this first stand out Anyone who spends budget airlines, allowances. With the 1.12kg, you’re allowance just with (and space) for adventure. Transporter WP Duffel is instantly the quality bag. Designed pack is rugged mind. Multiple make it easy to bag onto a boat 4x4 expedition exceptionally easy of transport canoes, or aircraft. vehicle and are the pack has wear the duffel no chest strap larger backpacks for walking didn’t pose any have a Velcro comfortable completely removed non-corroding to see any the option is robust YKK

AquaSeal zip which runs the full length of the top of the duffel. The large tag makes it exceptionally easy to open and close the pack when your hands are cold and wet, or you’re wearing gloves. Like all things with waterproof zips however, it’s crucial to ensure it’s fully closed with a notch at the end of the head of the zip to click into.

Inside the pack is a chasm of simple, usable space with compression straps to help secure the contents and take some pressure off the main zip. A really nice feature is the flat mesh pouch which is looped through the compression straps, and when packed, sits conventionally just under the zip.

This is perfect for storing documents and valuables which need to be easily and quickly accessible, an essential at times when travelling. There’s also a clip for securing your keys. The pouch can also be easily removed if you wish to carry your important documents for a short time or if you want to take the pouch out of the bag permanently.

With a remarkable IPX7 rating the pack has been demonstrated to be fully -submersible in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes. Constructed from recycled and bluesign® approved 630D ripstop high tenacity nylon, Osprey have double-coated the fabric with durable TPU for extreme abrasion resistance, so these packs are built to last.

Having endured international travel across multiple time zones through Dubai to Mauritius, aircraft changes, airport transfers, boat transfers, snorkelling trips, beach treks, tropical downpours and just about everything else imaginable, our Transporter WP Duffel 70 still looks brand-new and keeps asking for more adventure.

While at no point was our bag fully submerged, it was exposed to a number of extremely wet situations where the IPX7 rating really paid off, including during a five-island boat tour around Mauritius where quite literally everyone and everything was absolutely soaked. All expect the contents of my Transporter WP Duffel 70.

The Transporter WP Duffel range comes in three sizes with 40L, 70L and 100L meaning there’s a size to suit all eventualities. With two distinct colours available, Tunnel Vision Grey or Mars Orange, the pack will turn heads for all the right reasons.

If you’re looking for an adventure ready expedition duffel to keep your gear safe and dry and will withstand whatever you throw at it, you can’t go wrong with the Transporter WP Duffel 70.

This pack is now earned its place in my expedition adventure kit list and will be joining me on many more adventures in the coming weeks, months and years ahead.

Weight:1.1kg

Dimensions(cm):70H39W30D

Price:£275.00

https://www.ospreyeurope.com/

Staying dry with SealSkinz

OVER the years I have found clothing to help but I always struggle with my feet. I have tried so many different sock and show combinations but regularly find myself with cold and very wet toes!

Sealskinz, is a British brand known for their waterproof accessories, offering a range of products for various activities such as cycling, hiking, fishing, and more.

One of their notable products is the ‘Mautby‘ waterproof warm weather ankle length sock with Hydrostop.

Socks designed to keep your feet dry during adventurous activities like hiking, cycling, and running. Made up of three layers, each with its own important role, these socks provide a great fit and comfort.

I decided the best way to test these socks was to pull them on for a dog walk with Cooper.

The outer layer is made of stretch nylon, the middle layer is a hydrophilic membrane that makes the sock waterproof, and the inner bamboo lining for moisture control and comfort.

The socks also feature Sealskinz Hydrostop technology, an elastic taping around the cuff which clings to your ankle and stops water running down your leg into your sock.

Additionally, these socks are designed to prevent blisters and minimize rubbing and discomfort. The smooth design removes spots that might cause chafing, while the elastic support provides extra strength to your feet on the ankle, heel, and instep. This enhances both comfort and performance when engaging in active pursuits.

My walking boots have definitely seen better days, and after a trek with Cooper my feet are normally soaking wet. During this walk though my feet felt comfortable and

Review by Claire McRae

dry, not damp or sweaty. The taping around the cuff held the sock in place without irritating my skin or digging into my leg.

When I took off my boots the external layer of the socks were soaked, however my feet were still lovely and dry!

Overall, the Sealskinz Waterproof All Weather Ankle Length Sock with Hydrostop is a highly technical piece of footwear suitable for various adventurous activities. With their combination of waterproof materials and moisture-wicking properties, these socks effectively keep water out while allowing moisture from inside the sock to evaporate.

Whether you’re a dedicated outdoor enthusiast, a dog walker with a dog like mine who loves the mud or a commuter tired of arriving at the office with wet feet, these socks will help keep your feet nice and dry.

www.sealskinz.com

£30.00

Maritime & Coastguard Agency. Always seek guidance from your Area Management Team regarding the use of non-issued equipment during Coastguard duties.

TRANSPORTER WATERPROOF

FOR THE ADVENTURE

Built for your grandest adventures, the Transporter Waterproof Duffel was developed to offer a remarkable IPX7 rating with an easy-to-operate zip closure, offering unmatched protection access to your expedition gear.

IN this edition of From The Ops Room, Dawn catches up with Gemma McKeown from Belfast Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre.

The last time Dawn spoke with Gemma, she had just completed her navigation training and was preparing to a sit the assessments.

How did that go?

Last time we spoke I had just attended my Navigation course and was preparing for my navigation assessment, followed by the VTM course.

The navigation course was very overwhelming for me as it is a course with a lot of content and although I had some previous knowledge of navigation which helped with the understand of the basics.

I still had a lot to learn but with some more time to study the various parts involved I was able to pass and move on to my next modules.

What other training and assess have you had since then?

It has been a long journey with many challenging moments and a lot of learning.

At present I have completed all modules in the Maritime Operations Officer Training Program including OCS, Navigation, VTM, Search Planning,

FROM THE OPS ROOM

Dawn Petrie

Incident Response and Nautical Knowledge.

The courses I enjoyed the most by far was Search Planning and Incident Response as it is an area, I have a keen interest in, plus with my previous experience and training as part of our local Coastguard Rescue Team I was lucky to have already acquired knowledge which was relatable to the course.

I look forward to expanding my knowledge of search planning in the near future.

And is that your training complete?

Yes, I am pleased to say that I have completed all of my training, passed all my assessments and I am now a qualified Maritime Operation Officer.

So, what’s next?

Now I am going to focus on enjoying the role, growing my knowledge of our geographical areas and learning as much as I can from each incident.

I am also keen to focus on my personal development and focus on continuing to gain more knowledge in other areas of the job and at some stage in the next few years hope to continue to progress towards becoming a Senior Maritime operations Officer.

DAWN IS A TECHNICAL TRAINER FOR HM COASTGUARD WITH EXTENSIVE OPERATIONS ROOM EXPERIENCE

with

TALKING ABOUT KEEPING GOOD MENTAL HEALTH

CUPPA WITH CLAIRE

ON a daily basis it often feels like I am forever spinning plates I spend my working day teaching my classes, supporting my students and leading my team of colleagues.

At home I have my husband and dog to care for, marathons to train for, my volunteer role with the RNLI, relationships with friends and family to nurture and currently a wedding to plan.

It sounds easy enough but in reality all of these things are bigger than they seem, overlap into each other and can at times feel very overwhelming. A twist or turn along the way can cause what feels like a huge mountain to climb.

Something which I have never been good at is sharing the burden, allowing others to help me or even see that I am struggling.

Rather than being able to relax,

switch off and enjoy the moment I feel overwhelmed with everything I should or could be doing in that moment.

Recently in work I was introduced to mindfulness. This technique aims to help with becoming more self aware, feeling calmer and working through thoughts and feelings. Basically, taking time to focus on what is happening in the present moment rather than other thoughts.

One of the techniques I have found to work for me is paying attention to the environment around you using all of your senses. When I need to take a moment during a busy day I stop and consider the following; something I can touch, something I can hear, something I can see, something I can smell and something I can taste.

As I write this I can hear my dog softly snoring next to me, I can hear a car driving down the street outside, I can see my trainers sitting next to the door ready

for my run later, I can smell food being cooked from the house next door and I can taste the coffee I am enjoying.

Taking the time to do this during my day seems to be really beneficial, I find it helps me process what I am trying to do and gives me a chance to re-focus. I also found that doing it outdoors is amazing, taking the time to smell the sea, hearing the waves and tasting the salt in the air is so worthwhile.

After mentioning to my friend Janet that I had been successfully practicing mindfulness in my daily life she suggested I gave yoga a try.

Yoga is something I had long ago decided was not for me, I found it too challenging to slow down enough to practice this, plus my runners legs were super stiff and I found it tough to position my body in the correct way. However, after explaining all of this to Janet she convinced me to join her for

a short session. Janet, who is a YTT 200 qualified yoga teacher, said “When we are growing up we are never taught to breathe because it is assumed.

Yoga is simply instructions to better understand your body, your soul and the flow of energy in the current moment. It teaches you to breathe with purpose and learn about the body you live in.”

Standing on the beach we started with some deep breathing, thinking about our breathing, counting breaths in and out, moving onto techniques I practice in my mindfulness considering the environment around us.

At this point Janet slowly and supportively talked me through some of the basic yoga movements, taking our time through the process to consider our breathing and surroundings.

Janet explained that a number of the movements we were doing were stimulating the vagus nerve which is

involved in our parasympathetic nervous system. She also explained that the stretching could with practice increase my mobility when running.

I wouldn’t call myself a yoga convert but I do occasionally join Janet and my friends for a yoga session before a swim or after a run.

Combining the mindfulness techniques I enjoy with some light exercise helps to increase the flow of serotonin, calming my mind and enhancing both my physical and mental health.

Mindfulness and yoga have helped me try to find a balance amongst the chaos of my daily life, I certainly feel the benefits, however I know I should practice these techniques on a more regular basis and learn to live a little more in the moment.

If you are interested in trying some mindfulness techniques there is some fantastic advice on https://www.mind. org.uk.

REFLECTION with Chaplain Tom

DO you have a coastguard incident in the back of your mind, either recent or many years ago, about which you wonder… “could I have done more”?

Or something about it sits uneasy with you, even after all this time?

These thoughts are more common than you might think. Under the cold light of day they may be irrational, but that doesn’t stop you thinking about them.

Whether it’s about not arriving to an incident quickly enough and the opportunity to help save a life was missed, or having two casualties to deal with but only being able to tend to one of them, or being unable to reach a casualty because of time, resource or a decision that was made, there are many scenarios that can leave us reflecting with regret or frustration.

The first thing to say is that you take this upon yourself when you become a coastguard officer. Unfortunately, these thoughts are part of the job and part of the nature of search and rescue. It’s hidden baggage you likely don’t anticipate when you first join. If you’ve been carrying stuff like this for a long time, let me give you a pat on the back.

Secondly, let me tell you about a relatively new concept in the emergency services, the NHS and the military called ‘moral injury’.

It’s when your sense of what is right and proper – what you believe should happen for a casualty – doesn’t happen.

When your moral code, your set of personal principles, takes a hit. For example, maybe you’re frustrated that you weren’t tasked in a timely manner, and you didn’t make it to the casualty while there was a chance of saving them.

This can often be exacerbated in the Coastguard Rescue Service by the fact that, in small coastal communities, casualties are often known to us personally. Or, maybe you look back with concern over a decision about terminating a search which, with hindsight, some feel happened prematurely.

Or, maybe you had to make an OiC decision about deploying rope kit, and you didn’t, but retrospectively wish you did.

Do these types of thoughts ring a bell for you? Do you have colleagues who still lament some aspect of an incident from years back?

As I’ve said, these thoughts are more common than you might think, and it’s

important to say that ‘moral injury’ is not a diagnosable mental health condition. It does have its own cluster of symptoms, however, which can include guilt or shame, anger, being overly self-critical, or feeling conflicted.

The symptoms of moral injury can manifest in changes in sleep patterns, significant or persistent changes in behaviour or habits, mistakes, isolation, compulsive behaviour, or a weakened sense of empathy or compassion.

It’s improbable to think we won’t finish our time in search and rescue without a battle scar or two. If we look across the table to our blue light colleagues in the Fire and Rescue Service (FRS), for example, studies show that over 60% of FRS personnel have personal experience of mental health issues. How might that map across to us?

If you’d like to know more about moral injury, visit the new ‘Distressing Incidents Support Toolkit’ (DIST) training on CRSOnline.

In the fullness of time, a day’s DIST training will be rolled out to all coastguards. There’s

loads of good information on CRSOnline give you a head start.

If you’d like to talk about moral injury, either as an individual for yourself, or collectively a team about an incident you’ve been through together, please feel welcome to get in touch with me. By talking about it face-to-face or over a call, these thoughts can become rationalised and reconciled.

Please note my role is now ‘Welfare Staff Officer’, as well as National Chaplain. If you have a welfare matter to raise or discuss, please utilise me as an additional contact for welfare matters outside of your local team and management.

Sending every best wish for all you’re doing.

Revd Tom.

Get in touch via ‘Coastguard Chaplain Tom’ on Facebook or Twitter, by phone/text/What’s App on 07717483595, or on email to tom. ebbens@mcga.gov.uk. Your conversation always welcome.

to either as through touch over rationalised Staff you discuss, for and doing.

Tom’ phone/text/What’s tom. is

“It’s improbable to think we won’t finish our time in search and rescue without a battle scar or two...”

THROUGH THE LENS

PAUL AMBROSE WIRRAL CRT

ST GOVANS CRT

TORBAY CRT

AMANDA JOHNSTON - LARNE & PORTMUCK CRT

SUTTON BRIDGE CRT