22nd April 2021. The Covid-19 pandemic has increased the demand for UK based ‘staycations’ and many National Coastwatch Institution stations are preparing for an increase in demand for their services.

 One such station is NCI Torbay who are expecting a very busy summer season, particularly as indications are that Torquay will be one of the top tourist destinations in the UK for staycations. Anticipating an increase in visitor numbers, the volunteer watchkeepers are significantly extending their opening hours. A spokesman for NCI Torbay said “From earlier in the year, we have opened from 09.00 and currently close at 19.00. With effect from the end of April, we are further extending our closing time to 21.00 or dusk, whichever is the soonest”.