Plea for funding for marine ambulance upgrade

The Flying Christine will sail to the Isle of Wight for upgrades

Thousands of pounds is needed complete the refurbishment of the island's marine ambulance, according to Guernsey Ambulance and Rescue Service.

The Flying Christine III is nearing the end of its 30-year design life and is due to undergo clinical and navigational upgrades in the Isle of Wight.

However, the service said escalating costs meant there was not enough funding for the the second phase of refurbishment and painting of external bodywork, with £20,000 still needed.

Chief executive officer Mark Mapp said: "Ensuring the marine ambulance is able to continue providing a lifeline service, deliver high quality care and meet the high standards expected comes at a cost."

'Urgent help'

The ambulance service said the work included the replacement of the boat's distinctive black fendering.

Mr Mapp said: "The outside of the boat is starting to show its age and is in need of some cosmetic repairs and repainting, however without additional funds this won't happen, which is why we are appealing for urgent help to raise the final £20,000."

While the boat could be replaced, Mr Mapp said the purpose-built vessel still had an "excellent sea-going hull" that kept patients stable on rough seas.

"If you built a new vessel it might not be as good as the one we've got," Mr Mapp said.

It is hoped the works will extend the life of the vessel by another 10 years.

The first phase of mechanical upgrades was completed last year.

While the Flying Christine is out of the water, maintenance relief vessels would be used to maintain marine ambulance cover in the bailiwick.

The vessel, the Channel Islands' only marine ambulance, is credited with saving more than 1,000 lives since it was launched in 1994.