Jetski rescue trial a success

12:55pm Wednesday 16th July 2008

A NEW kind of river-rescue vessel was tested out with great success in Upton last weekend.

Mercia Inshore Search and Rescue (MISAR) had two jet skis with special rescue sledges attached on standby during Saturday's Upton Triathlon event, which saw about 350 swimmers tackling a demanding course in the River Severn.

Team manager David Walker said the equipment was used to great success when a female swimmer developed cramp towards the end of the swim.

"We had to get in amongst the swimmers to get her out, which you simply cannot do with a standard propeller boat," he said. "But using the jet ski we were able to get her out safely with no problems at all."

MISAR was granted special permission by British Waterways to use the jet ski, and is now hoping to purchase similar equipment of its own.

"It would probably cost us just over £7,000, but I think it is something well worth obtaining," said Mr Walker. "It would have great benefits in instances of flooding. It is something that works in shallow waters, so we would be able to get around the town with comparative ease and safety.

"We will now be looking to develop training for the crew."