A COASTGUARD rescue team based in Cumbrae is now recruiting for new volunteers.

Cumbrae Coastguard Rescue Team has announced that its recruitment window for volunteer officers has opened.

The organisation is a team of volunteers from all backgrounds including other emergency services, government agencies, sales, retail, management and council staff.

The busy team responds to emergency incidents around Cumbrae ranging from people in the water, missing persons, vessels in distress, helicopter operations, ordnance incidents and medical incidents.

Anyone interested in joining must fit the following criteria:

• Have some availability either during the working day or night;

• Aged 18 or above;

• Reside or work on Cumbrae;

• Be physically fit;

• Subject to a criminal record background check;

• Full clean UK driving licence.

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All applicants must also complete a full medical form and be available to attend New Entry Training at Greenock Coastguard on all of the following dates next year: 

• Monday, February 5 until Friday, February 9 

• Saturday Sunday, February 24 and 25

• Saturday and Sunday, March 9 and 10.

An ongoing training programme will continue monthly beyond that point.

The closing date for applications is Friday, September 22 and all remuneration and expenses will be covered for people's time.

For more information and to apply, complete an online form for Area 04 here.