RNLI asks for more lifeboat volunteers in resort

Being an RNLI volunteer is a great and rewarding volunteering role, said Blackpool-based Jason Cotillard

The RNLI is looking for more volunteers for one of its busiest lifeboat stations.

The charity said it wanted "dedicated and committed" people to join as inshore lifeboat crew members at Blackpool Lifeboat Station, which is based on the town's famous Promenade.

No previous maritime experience is needed, with the RNLI saying it was keen to hear from people who would be available during the day.

Jason Cotillard, who has been an RNLI volunteer in Blackpool for more than a year, said it still "blows my mind" when he sees the crew "going out to sea in all weathers and putting their lives at risk".

'Rewarding role'

He told BBC Radio Lancashire Blackpool was one of the busiest RNLI stations in the country.

Due to typically responding to 150 shouts a year, it has three lifeboats.

"We are looking for more crew who live 5-10 minutes away from the station," said Mr Cotillard.

"It's a really great rewarding volunteering role.

"We are looking for people who are 55 or under who have got some time to volunteer for their local lifeboat station.

"You do need to be fit as there is a medical. You don't have to be an athlete or Olympian, but you do need to have reasonable fitness."

He added that volunteers "don't have to be available 24/7".

Some volunteers, he said, work away for two weeks and are only on call when they are back home.