A team of lifeboat volunteers have been learning new skills ahead of their new boat arriving.
The Moray Inshore Rescue Organisation (MIRO) crew took part in Royal Yachting Association Day Skipper theory training to enhance their knowledge of aspects of seamanship.
That included such things as meteorology, navigation, pilotage techniques and collision regulations.
The volunteers work out of Findhorn Marina, and chairman John Low said it was important that the team keep developing their knowledge and “up-skilling”.
Mr Low said it was “invaluable”, adding: “We are delighted to have eight crew members taking part in RYA Day Skipper training which will be invaluable in assisting them to make informed decisions when on board the rescue boat.
“Up-skilling our crew will enhance MIRO operational capacity in preparation for the arrival of our new Humber Ocean Pro rib, which will replace the current MIRO rescue boat, the Glyn Whitehead.”
The course, which consists of about 40 hours of teaching time and two exams, is being delivered by Simon Paterson of Findhorn Marina, a recognised RYA training centre.
The crew were called out 15 times last year to assist sailors, swimmers, kayakers and animals in difficulty.
In order to continue their lifesaving work, they are fundraising to renew some of their some of their equipment and are calling on the local community to back their efforts – simply by choosing them in the local Tesco Bag for Life scheme.
The new boat, which is due to arrive in the summer, will mean an extra trained volunteer can go out and assist on the rescue.
Mr Low said: “The new boat is bigger than our existing vessel and will allow us to increase our crew to four members which will enhance the service we can provide.
“We are very grateful to Tesco for giving us the opportunity to raise funds for lifesaving equipment which is essential to enable our crew to respond to emergency call outs.”
