Work to extend life of marine ambulance under way

The vessel will be 30 years old at the end of 2024

Upgrades to the St John Marine Ambulance, the Flying Christine III, could extend its life by up to 10 years.

Maintenance on the nearly 30 year old vessel is being carried out in various phases throughout the year, starting this week.

Work includes repainting and cleaning, removal and serving of the engine, and upgrading the mechanics and electrics.

In total it is expected to cost around £200,000, which the service said was a fraction of the price of building a replacement vessel.

The vessel is nearly 30 years old

Volunteer Marine Operations Manager, Gary Ward said: "Although the vessel is nearing the end of its planned operational life, with some investment and modernisation she is capable of remaining in service for up to 10 more years."

Phase one starts this week with the second phase scheduled for December, avoiding the summer period when demand for the marine ambulance is normally higher.

The RNLI St Peter Port Lifeboat, Access Challenger and Brechou Chief will provide temporary cover for the Flying Christine while it is out of the water.