Ryde Inshore Rescue has had its declared asset status reinstated by HM Coastguard, it has been confirmed.
As exclusively revealed by Island Echo last October, HM Coastguard took the unusual decision to remove Ryde Inshore Rescue from the list of declared assets available for search and rescue operations.
For the past 6 months, any emergencies on Ryde Sands and the surrounding areas have been attended by RNLI lifeboats from Bembridge, Portsmouth or Cowes – as well as Gosport’s independent lifeboat.
This vital re-recognition means the volunteer-led lifeboat station is once again able to respond to emergency callouts and provide lifesaving assistance along the coastline and surrounding waters.
It was never disclosed what exactly forced the decision in the first place, but the volunteer organisation says that it has gone through a period of focused development, intense training, and a detailed review of operations.
Over the past few months, the crew and management team have worked ‘tirelessly’ to meet the rigorous requirements set out by HM Coastguard – and in doing so, have not only regained operational status but reached a new high standard of professionalism, safety, and readiness.
A spokesperson for Ryde Inshore Rescue has said:
“While we are proud of the significant progress made and the high level we have now achieved, this is by no means the end of the journey. Ryde Inshore Rescue remains fully committed to continuous improvement. We will keep developing our systems, training our crew, and evolving our operations to ensure we are always delivering the highest quality of service to our community.
“We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported us through this challenging and transformative period. Your encouragement, donations, and belief in our mission have been a vital source of strength.
“A very special thanks goes to our incredible team of volunteers – the beating heart of Ryde Inshore Rescue. Their dedication, professionalism, and sheer determination have been nothing short of outstanding. This achievement is a direct result of their hard work and commitment to keeping our coastline safe”.
Martin Osborne, Secretary of Ryde Inshore Rescue, adds:
“The past few months have truly demonstrated the strength, capability, and resilience of our team. We are incredibly proud to have regained our declared asset status and grateful to everyone who has supported us. While we’ve achieved a high standard, we are not standing still – we are pushing forward, learning, and continually raising the bar. Ryde Inshore Rescue is back, stronger than ever and ready to serve.”
Ryde Inshore Rescue’s origins date back to the 1950s, with the association with HM Coastguard as a search and rescue asset forged in 1969. By 1980 the lifeguard unit had transformed into a full inshore rescue lifeboat service and became a registered charity, growing to run 2 inshore lifeboats by 2007.
Well done to all concerned. You are nothing short of real heroes.