Visit to Torbay Lifeboat

Torbay lifeboat is one of the busiest in the region and Totnes Lib Dem Parliamentary Spokesperson, Mike Treleaven called in to look around the station at Brixham and discuss the work of the R.N.L.I. with Chairman, Arthur Kernow and Operations Manager, David Ham.

Operating an all weather boat and an inflatable inshore boat, the station dealt with 130 calls, or 'shouts' in 2003 and is well on the way to a similar number of incidents this year as it protects an area from Teignmouth to Start Point and extending 50 miles out to sea.

Speaking after his visit Mike Treleaven said:

' I am full of admiration for the R.N.L.I. - lifeboat crew are on standby 24 hours a day and never fail to answer the needs of people in distress however bad the weather. The Torbay station is a prime example with dedicated crew and officers always ready to respond. This service is totally funded by voluntary donations and huge amounts of money are necessary to maintain the high standards for which the service is renowned. The service is proud to remain voluntary and independent and I can understand why.'

He continued:

'The all weather boat desperately needs a pontoon facility which I believe is scheduled for next year. I believe that most of the problems that have surrounded this project have been overcome and I look forward to seeing the boat on a proper mooring, with power and water readily available, very soon.'