I'm raising £2,000 for Fleet Bay Inshore Rescue Boat.

Since the end of 2023, HM Coastguard Belfast are unable to 'task' Fleet Bay IRB to assist people in difficulty in Fleet Bay & Wigtown bay as the current boat does not conform to the Rescue Boat code, which is a 160 page manual stipulating the requirements of boat, crew and infrastructure. In the last year, 2 lives have been lost in Fleet Bay and it is vital that we ensure this service is recognised and tasked once again by HM Coastguard Belfast.

The money raised will assist with modifications to the boat and training required as well as insurance, running costs.

The IRB committee have applied for Charity status which is being reviewed currently.

The History of FLeet Bay IRB.

The Fleet Bay Inshore Recue Boat is a voluntary service that has been in operation since 1974. The service developed out of concern at the lack of immediate rescue facilities within Fleet Bay. Fleet Bay had always attracted a large number of locals, visitors and water sports enthusiasts and there was the worry that lives could be in jeopardy without a permanent rescue boat stationed somewhere within the bay.

An exploratory meeting was held in the Murray Arms Hotel on 3rd April 1974 - in attendance at this meeting were Mrs Murray Usher (Sandgreen), Mr Rainsford Hannay (Cardoness), Mr John McConchie (Mossyard), and Mr George McCulloch (Auchenlarie). A committee was established. The original rescue boat was purchased from donations from the caravan park owners for £858.82 and delivered to its station at Mossyard in July 1974. This original boat operated in Fleet Bay until October 2003 when it was replaced with a modern version after 8 years of fundraising and a successful application to the National Lottery. The old rescue boat was sold on Ebay for £1010 to a gentleman in Orkney! So for 30 years old, it did do well!!!

Today, the Rescue Boat committee ensures this invaluable service continues to operate in Fleet Bay. It is financed entirely by fundraising, public donations and annual contributions from the park owners around Fleet Bay. It has undoubtedly saved lives over the years and thanks to the whole hearted commitment of the crew members it proves time and time again to be a service we couldn't do without.