A crew of rescue volunteers who keep Moray’s shoreline safe have been given a boost of more than £5,000 from the UK Government.
The Findhorn-based Moray Inshore Rescue Organisation – which provides waterborne emergency response from Burghead to Nairn and up to three miles offshore – will now be able to buy vital new equipment after being pledged the amount as part of a nationwide scheme.
Jubilant leaders yesterday vowed to plough the funds into making sure members are safe while at sea.
Chairman Tim Negus said: “This money will go towards increasing crew comfort and safety.
“We’ll buy some foul-weather clothing and personal location beacons, which will help find people who have fallen overboard.
“The equipment we buy will make us more efficient, and will really improve our safety.
“It’s super to be recognised in this way, we’re delighted with it.”
The Department of Transport grant programme split a share of £60,000 across five Scottish coastal voluntary groups.
The Moray Inshore Rescue Organisation was awarded £5,037.36.
Supporter of the group and local councillor Douglas Ross, said: “This funding recognises the enormous efforts of voluntary rescue boat teams in Scotland, and I’m delighted to see the Moray Inshore Rescue Organisation is one of the five
groups in Scotland to receive a share.
“I know it will be well used by the team at Findhorn.”
The organisation was established in 2006 after a Findhorn yachtsman was lost off the Burghead coast.
Three years ago the crew took possession of a new rib vessel after receiving a £26,000 funding boost.