A SOUTH Lakes MP is calling on people to sign up as volunteers to potentially help save lives as part of a vital coastline rescue service.

Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron, who is MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale, wants more people to become trustees of Bay Search and Rescue.

The organisation, which was formed in 1999, has an operational team of 20, with vehicles and boats based at Flookburgh and Milnthorpe which specialise in rescue and recovery from quicksand, swiftwater, floodwater, snow and ice.

The group's funding comes entirely from grants, donations and income from their two shops and Mr Farron is keen for people to support the charity more so that they continue offering its invaluable service.

Mr Farron said: "It was great to visit Bay Search and Rescue and get more of an insight into their work. The charity provides an invaluable service to the local area, as their fantastic efforts during last winter’s floods showed.

"Lives are saved, countless more people rescued from danger, as a result of the dedication and expertise of the organisation’s team.

"The charity is now looking for Trustees who will be able to support their work, and I’d encourage any local people with relevant skills and experience to contact Bay Search and Rescue."

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