Under pressure Coastguard chiefs offer jet skis as replacement for Arnside rescue boat

11.10.00am GMT Wed 18th Mar 2009

Coastguard chiefs have yielded to pressure to restore the Arnside Coastguard by offering jet skis as a temporary replacement for the Arnside rescue boat; however local MP Tim Farron remains unsatisfied and has described the decision as a "sticking plaster" solution.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency removed the boat for repair five months ago and have yet to confirm when it will be back and whether it will even return to Arnside.

Mr Farron is providing evidence to the Transport Minister Jim Fitzpatrick MP for an inquiry into the removal of the Arnside Coastguard boat and will also urge the Government to make a decision to restore the boat ahead of the busy tourist season.

Commenting Mr Farron said:

"I'm pleased that the Coastguard Agency has reacted to our campaign, but the offer of jet skis as a replacement for the Arnside coastguard boat is clearly inadequate. How could a coastguard on a jet ski bring back an unconscious victim to shore?

"As the busy tourist season looms ever closer, it's imperative that the Arnside Coastguard boat is fully replaced. The tides on Morecambe Bay and in particular the Kent estuary are some of the most dangerous in the UK which can cause even the most experienced sailors and sands walkers difficulty.

"Safety must be a priority when it comes to dealing with the type of dangerous tidal movements which led to the 2004 tragedy at Morecambe Bay."