The Northumbria Unit of the Maritime Volunteer Service (MVS) have recently received a generous grant from the Province of Northumberland to buy a rigid hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) which is being used to assist the nautical community from Berwick to Teesside.
Founded in 1994, the MVS has more than 25 units around the UK coastline at major port and river areas. Its aim is to keep the country’s seafaring traditions alive, with practical training in seamanship, small boat handling, engineering and communications.
The Northumbria Unit is based in Benton and trains with its 21ft patrol boat at Newcastle’s St Peter’s Marina and the RHIB all over the region. Membership is open to anyone over 18 years of age and the unit recruits from the Tees to the Tweed. No experience is needed as full training is given.
Sunday 21st October is a special day in naval terms – it is Trafalgar Day where the Royal Navy celebrates one of the greatest sea victories in history. The MVS would like brethren from the coastal ports in the north of the Province (including Alnwick) to join us on that day for a brief PR photo opportunity with the RHIB which has been named “The Northumberland Freemason” and a tot of Port at the following times:
Berwick near RNLI station – 10am
Seahouses Harbour – 11.30am
Amble Harbour 2pm
Newbiggin by the Sea – Church Point 3.30pm