Morecombe was chosen as a location for the first RNLI hovercraft because of extensive mud and sand flats that are uncovered at low tide plus areas of quicksand. It was also considered appropriate for the first rescue hovercraft to be located near a lifeboat station so that the lifeboat could provide additional support as required.

Two additional RNLI hovercraft are expected to go on station this year. Trials confirmed that volunteer crews of two or three could easily be trained to 'fly' the road transportable 7.75m long hovercraft.

The Griffon 470 TD is a modified version of the Griffon 450 TD manufactured by Griffon Hovercraft Limited. Its length, stability, buoyancy and thrust have been increased over the standard model while noise levels have been decreased.

Power is provided by twin Volkswagen Golf Turbo Diesel engines rated at 64kW each to provide a top speed of 30 knots.

Seakeeping a not a strong point of the craft so its use is restricted to a wave height of under 1m and a wind speed of 25 knots. Another advantage of the hovercraft, however, is that its gentler ride allows the normal inshore lifeboat crew retirement age to be extended from 45 to 55.

Also before Christmas, contractors Dean and Dyball started work on the RNLI Lifeboat College, a residential training facility with a visitor centre, auditoriums, conference rooms and classrooms as well as bedrooms to accommodate up to 60 volunteers from around the UK at one time.

The College will include a Lifeboat Support Centre with vessel refit facilities and a stores complex and a Survival Centre with a wave pool that can generate waves capable of capsizing lifeboats. Simulated helicopter winching drills will be given and a full mission simulator will replicate the wheelhouse of the RNLI's all weather lifeboats to provide training in a broad range of true to life scenarios. Two PC labs will provide additional specialised training in rules of the roads, GMDSS and manoeuvring techniques.

MJ Information No: 17806