1st March 2016.  Last weekend the High Sheriff of Dorset paid an informal visit to the Lookout at NCI Lyme Bay to see for herself how our organisation contributes to safety on the Dorset coast.Whilst there, Mrs Jennifer Coombs met Lyme Bay Station Manager William Knapman and Watchkeepers Judy Clarke and David Glossop (Station Public Relations Officer). 

 After the visit the High Sheriff said:  “National Coastwatch Institution is run by a group of trained volunteers whose dedicated professionalism helps to keep our Dorset Coast safe.  When I visited the Hive Beach Lookout at Burton Bradstock, I met the volunteers of the Saturday watch.  I learnt how they monitor the vessels in Lyme Bay, people on the beach, the Gig Rowing Club - all by visual contact and by listening to a number of coastal radio channels – especially helpful in poor visibility.  The benefits of this service, which is at no cost to the public purse and relies on Charities and local donations, is clear:  keeping the coastal waters safe by assisting other maritime services and the police.  This is a terrific group of people who deserve our support.”

 The photograph shows Mrs Coombs (High Sheriff of Dorset) in the lookout with Station Manager William Knapman and Watchkeeper Judy Clarke.