Could you become a lifesaver?

The volunteers from Kinghorn RNLI lifeboat with the new search and rescue helicopter on Kinghorn beach

But have you ever considered joining as a member of the crew or onshore team?

Kinghorn’s RNLI station is currently seeking recruits from within the village, and anyone interested in finding out more about the role is being invited along for a coffee and a chat next month.

A Brew with the Crew will take place at Kinghorn Lifeboat Station in St James Place on Sunday, May 1 from 10am, and all are welcome to go along and find out whether becoming a volunteer could be for them.

Some of the volunteer crew at sea in front of the Kinghorn lifeboat station

There are positions for both tractor drivers and lifeboat crew, and you do not need any existing knowledge or experience as the RNLI will provide all necessary training for each role, although volunteer tractor drivers will require a full UK driving licence.

All of the lifeboat crew provide 24-hour cover on a voluntary basis and the on-call system works on a rota basis, with all volunteers requiring to live and work locally.

Alan McIlravie, operations manager, said: “Kinghorn is one of the busiest stations in Scotland, covering much of the Fife and Edinburgh coastline, and we are looking for more volunteers to join our dedicated team.

“No experience is needed as there is a comprehensive training programme offered – less than 10 per cent of RNLI volunteers have a professional maritime background - and this often stands you in good stead for employment and other parts of your life.

“You need to be physically fit, you should be between 17 and 65, and enjoy a challenge! It can be an extremely testing, but also a very rewarding organisation to be involved in.

“Our Brew with the Crew event will provide an opportunity for those considering becoming involved to speak to members of the crew in an informal situation, and find out exactly what’s involved.

“There is absolutely no commitment to join, so you have nothing to lose.

“The RNLI currently has around 4600 volunteer crewmembers, shore crew and management around the country, and in 2013 we saved 325 lives around the coast of the UK and Ireland.”

Anyone who would like further information, or cannot make it on to the event in May, can visit www.kinghorn.org.uk/recruitment or email [email protected].