VIEW FROM THE TOWER!

Recently watchkeepers from Gosport NCI were invited to visit Gosport & Fareham Inshore Rescue Service, known locally as GAFIRS. It is one of a surprising number of independent lifeboat rescue services around the coast (over 60) that plays a vital role in maritime and inshore safety.They work in close collaboration with the UK Coastguard and other lifeboat services, such as the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI). Their area of coverage includes the waters off Lee-on-the-Solent, Hill Head, and Stokes Bay, extending out into the Solent itself and makes GAFIRS one of the busiest lifeboat stations in the UK!  The watchkeepers from the NCI were all impressed by the rigorous training the volunteers  received and to learn about the comprehensive and well equipped boats. The Joan Dora Fuller; the 9 m, 40 plus knots main lifeboat and the Ian Fuller; their 4.8 m, 30 knot inshore lifeboat. Based at the Premier Gosport Marina, the inshore lifeboat is a regular sight for NCI wat...

  Alan, former naval officer   Why I became a watchkeeper? I love binoculars round my neck and to see the whole of the eastern Solent in view and that I am making a contribution to water safety.     Becoming a watchkeeper: If you would like to become a watchkeeper, email the station manager at gosport@nci.org.uk for more information. Making a donation to Gosport NCI: Text NCIGOSPORT to 70450 to donate £5. Social Media Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

  Mark, amateur sailor and food and beverage business man   Why I became a watchkeeper? I have a love of the sea. I love the location in Fort Blockhouse and the teamwork.     Becoming a watchkeeper: If you would like to become a watchkeeper, email the station manager at gosport@nci.org.uk for more information. Making a donation to Gosport NCI: Text NCIGOSPORT to 70450 to donate £5. Social Media Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

This year, three of our intrepid watchkeepers; Caroline, Lenie and Lesley will be braving the icy waters of the Solent on New Year's Day. Last year they raised over £500, split equally between GAFIRS, Gosport's independent lifeboat and NCI Gosport. This year, again, over 400 people are expected to take part in the event at Stokes Bay, making it one of the largest charity swims on the south coast. Stay warm and watch the fun from midday! If you are thinking of having your own swim this year it is a good idea to check the tides, carry a charged mobile in a waterproof pouch, have warm dry clothing to change into - the sea temperature is just 9 Celsius and don't go alone! Becoming a watchkeeper: If you would like to become a watchkeeper, email the station manager at gosport@nci.org.uk for more information. Making a donation to Gosport NCI: Text NCIGOSPORT to 70450 to donate £5. Social Media Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.  

 Nicola, former college lecturer   Why I became a watchkeeper? It is a great place to keep one’s sailing skills up to date and with a great view too!     Becoming a watchkeeper: If you would like to become a watchkeeper, email the station manager at gosport@nci.org.uk for more information. Making a donation to Gosport NCI: Text NCIGOSPORT to 70450 to donate £5. Social Media Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

Yesterday, watchkeepers from Gosport NCI had a privileged insight into the workings of Portsmouth Harbour Control with a visit hosted by Nick Randall, the King ’ s Harbour Master. Portsmouth, along with Plymouth and Clyde that have a King ’ s Harbour Master (KHM) in recognition of their primary roles as Royal Navy bases.The current job of KHM dates back almost 200 years but its origins can be traced to the beginning of 17th century. The KHM ’ s remit covers 55 square nautical miles of sea, from Osbourne House on the Isle of Wight to the Eastern Solent and Seaview Bay to the South and the approaches to Langstone to the West. The KHM is responsible for all movements in and around the harbour, admiralty pilotage and the safety and security of the port operations.   From their offices in the Semaphore Tower in Portsmouth ’ s historic dockyard complex, Harbour Control operate 24/7 and manage movements in and out one of the busiest ports anywhere - with over 80,000 vessel transits an...

  Peter, former airline pilot. Why I became a watchkeeper? I’ve sailed in the Solent for 50 years and it gives me personal pleasure to care for others on the water as they care for me.     Becoming a watchkeeper: If you would like to become a watchkeeper, email the station manager at gosport@nci.org.uk for more information. Making a donation to Gosport NCI: Text NCIGOSPORT to 70450 to donate £5. Social Media Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.