A SKILLED rescue team based in Worcestershire has launched an appeal to find crew members for its team.
The Mercia Inshore Search and Rescue assists the emergency services in missing person cases, helps those who get into difficulty in rivers and rescues boats.
The group raises funds by providing safety cover for water based events, including regattas and triathlons.
The rescue service is based at Upton on Severn, but has members from all across the county who travel around the country to carry out their work.
There are currently seven active crew members but the service is looking for another ten to join its ranks who will be given full training.
As well as regular training, members will get to undertake the RYA Level 2 in Power Boating and swift water and flood rescue technician courses.
Members train on Thursday evenings and Sunday mornings at Upton on Severn and also undertake sessions around the country, including Plas Menai in north Wales which provides very arduous and challenging conditions.
They use 4x4s and boats to carry out rescues.
Crewman Thomas Barrett said, in the recent floods, the organisation’s members were there to help days before the army arrived.
“We managed to save 12 people, a cat and a dog before the floodwaters got too deep for our vehicles.
“What we do is very rewarding work and you get a lot of thanks from people and the community.
“The training courses we do and the skills you gain are phenomenal and they last you a lifetime.”
As well as crew members, the Mercia Inshore Search and Rescue is also looking for people to raise funds for it. Activities include organising charity events and undertaking collections at venues, such as supermarkets.
Anyone wanting more information should visit www.merciarescue.org and anyone interested in applying should e-mail [email protected]
