The Member of Parliament for Eastleigh, Mims Davies, has welcomed that the Department for Transport has awarded the Hamble Lifeboat nearly £30,000 from its rescue boat grant fund. The scheme - launched in 2014 - provides £5 million over 5 years to independent search and rescue teams working on inshore and inland waterways.
Hamble Lifeboat was formed by Hamble residents in 1968 - celebrating its 50th anniversary last year – and has responded to thousands of incidents since its creation, saving countless lives.
Commenting, local MP Mims Davies said:
“Those of us either living in or regularly visiting Hamble recognise what a hub the village is for the sailing and maritime community, particularly during the summer months, and it’s really important that everyone is safe on the water, and that if anything goes wrong, help is at hand.
“Having visited Hamble Lifeboat over the summer I know just how seriously the team take that responsibility, and just what this cash, together with vital donations from local people and visitors to the area, will mean for them and the excellent service that they are able to provide in our area.”
Also commenting, Lifeboat Operations Manager for Hamble Lifeboat, Steve Emery, said:
“We are thrilled to be receiving this year’s grant to afford us the opportunity to purchase to key pieces of equipment; one for the safe mooring of the lifeboat and one for the communication systems with our emergency crew.
“Without the Department for Transport grant, it is unlikely that we would have been able to afford these items at any time in the near future. Being a charity, all donations from any source are gratefully received; without the generous support from the public, we would not be able to continue providing the service we have for the last 50 years.”
Maritime Minister Nusrat Ghani said:
“Our rescue boat teams are the unsung heroes of the UK’s waterways. Their commitment and skill keeps people safe on and around our rivers, lakes and inshore areas.
“Lives have been saved as a result of this scheme and our additional funding will ensure that these tireless volunteers and charities can buy the craft, equipment, and other resources they need to provide vital round-the-clock services.”