13th September 2022. Martin Ainscough, the High Sheriff of Lancashire, presented five and ten-year certificates of service to the volunteer members of Fleetwood’s National Coastwatch Institution station, based at the Rossall Point Watch Tower. It was a learning experience for the High Sheriff, who told the volunteers his knowledge of the charity’s work before his visit was limited - but he was keen to learn more about their work.

The NCI volunteers work closely with their RNLI and HM Coastguard colleagues, watching over the sea and the shores of Rossall and Fleetwood every day of the year. Of the 20 incidents this year in which the Coastwatch volunteers raised the alarm, at least two of them were potentially life-saving. Martyn Cripps, station manager of NCI Fleetwood, said: “We are effectively the eyes and ears of the Coastguards. Many times, because of our experience with the local tides, we are able to spot someone about to get into potential difficulties before it happens. We try and prevent that from happening but we are ready to help if it does. Our first action is to contact the Coastguards base at Anglesey and they will then decide what course of action to take – they’ll often bring the RNLI in to assist.”

In August a woman walking on Fleetwood beach found herself chest deep in water and in trouble. However, a keen-eyed Coastwatch volunteer had already spotted her before the tide rushed in and raised the alarm, allowing the inshore lifeboat to get to her in time. Martyn added: “We don’t do this for certificates or individual praise but when you get a five- or ten-year certificate from someone like the High Sheriff, you do get a nice warm feeling that your efforts are recognised!”

The photograph, courtesy of the Fleetwood Gazette, shows the High Sheriff of Lancashire Martin Ainscough with NCI volunteers at NCI Fleetwood. From left, Paul Midgley, the High Sheriff of Lancashire Martin Ainscough, Station Manager Martyn Cripps and Alan Knowles.