Simon Fell, the MP for Barrow and Furness, has helped to launch the National Independent Lifeboat Association (NILA) at an event in Parliament this week.

Now a registered charity with twenty-seven confirmed members and a board consisting of experienced lifeboat crew members, NILA is supported by the Department for Transport and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

Over forty-five independent lifeboat organisations operate along the coastline and on inland waterways across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

These independent lifeboats are run primarily (if not entirely) by volunteers and funded by local donations. They save thousands of lives each year and prove an invaluable service to their local communities as well as those who visit the area in which they operate.

Commenting at the launch, Simon said:

“It was very good to join the launch event for the National Independent Lifeboat Association in Parliament today, alongside my good friend – and NILA’s Honorary President – Anthony Mangnall MP.

“Independent Lifeboat Associations work relentlessly to keep people safe on and off shore, and we are fortunate to be served by some of the very best in our local area.

“I’m very glad that Bay Search and Rescue and Ulverston Inshore Rescue are founder members of NILA, and will be able to draw on the support and advice of the 27 other current members going forward.”