23rd - 25th May 2009 Bank holiday weekend

In preparation for the expected increase of people enjoying the fine weather upon the waters of the Western Solent and Lepe Country Park, Solent Rescue geared up for a busy bank holiday weekend.

Crew were arranged to ensure that a boat crew was either afloat on patrol or on mooring listening 0.

We observed a significantly larger than normal volume of vessels traversing the waterways but the number of call outs were minimal.

Even with the tidal streams being at the height of springs, no-one appeared to be getting themselves into a pickle.

We used the time to patrol our area and re-familiarise crew with boat and rope handling whilst upon the vessel.

I'd like to take this time to give a special thanks to a few crew members.  Firstly, Trevor, many thanks for the recalibration of the Castoldi, it's good to have someone who is becoming our jet technician.

Also, Mick, well done on pulling a three day crew roster, this allowed the coxswains to operate with confidence upon the water.

Plus a congratulations to Damien for notching up his first boat to trailer recovery at the helm, apologies for my little irish jig whilst waiting for you to plonk her on.

Well that's about it, back on service this coming weekend, I believe Mick and myself may be pulling the double.