Eastleigh MP, Mims Davies, joined Trustee, Liam Dobbin, and colleagues at Hamble Lifeboat this week to gain an understanding of their role and the challenges they face as an independent lifeboat station. Hamble Lifeboat, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, is located on the Hamble peninsular and plays a vital part in marine safety in The Solent, from Lee-on-the Solent and Cowes to Gurnard Bank and the mouth of the River Beaulieu as well as Southampton Water and the rivers Hamble, Itchen and Test.
One of 8 independent lifeboats in the area, it is completely funded by donations and fundraising and is staffed by volunteers. The region with a wealth of commercial shipping, a large number of leisure craft and water sports, means this is one of the busiest lifeboats in the area. The station prides itself on its flexibility to tackle both open and shallow water rescues maintaining specialist equipment for both.
Mims said,
“This was a fascinating visit and an ideal opportunity to gain a greater understanding of how this key rescue service supports our community. The dedicated team of volunteers not only man the boats and maintain the equipment but also provide training and play a very active role in fundraising, which means they can’t be out on the water at the same time. I take my hat off to the amazing crew and supporters who so generously give their time to all of these essential elements of running this station.’
She continued,
“For anyone out there who is looking to contribute in their community this is certainly a most worthy cause. I’d encourage both individuals and businesses to support Hamble Lifeboat.”