A “critical” appeal has been launched to keep the volunteer Nith Inshore Rescue team afloat after a crippling 40 per cent drop in donations and a hefty rise in running costs.
The charity, which needs around £35,000 a year to operate, provides vital lifeboat rescue services for the Upper Solway area.
It is now seeking 600 core supporters – individuals, families and businesses – who would be willing to sign up to give small but regular donations to sustain the wholly volunteer-run team.
Chairman Laurie Irving told the Standard: “We are facing a critical funding shortage that could jeopardise our life-saving operations.
“We urgently appeal to our community to join hands with us, show their support, and help us continue our vital work.
“Every donation matters and has the power to save lives at sea and in our inland waters.”
Mr Irving added: “It is an investment in safeguarding the lives of fishermen, sailors, beachgoers, and all who rely on the unfailing vigilance of Nith Inshore Rescue’s dedicated volunteers.”
Based at the Glencaple boathouse, Nith Inshore Rescue has provided round-the-clock rescue services for 40 years with more than 600 call-outs and more than 75,500 hours of active volunteer service.
This has been possible through funding from donations and legacies from the community but the cost of living crisis, rising bills and the need to replace ageing equipment is stacking up against it.
Treasurer Gwilym Gibbons said: “Regrettably, in recent years we have seen, like many charities, a 40 per cent drop in donations and a significant rise in running costs due to inflation pressures and ageing equipment requiring additional maintenance.
“We are actively seeking grant support to replace our ageing Land Rover and undertake a major refit of St John, our larger lifeboat, to ensure we stay safe and on service as well as reduce the costs of maintenance.
“This ask and urgent appeal is for help with annual running costs such as insurance, our pager system to callout crew, electricity, gas and crew equipment and supplies.
“Together this adds up to around £35,000 per year to keep Nith Inshore Rescue afloat.”
He added: “I would like to thank all those who continue to donate and support us.
“The individuals and companies who make regular donations, and in particular St Michael’s Services and Premier Taxes who donate fuel for our boats and vehicles, without your support we would not be here today.
“Now, we are asking people to help us by making regular small donations.
“A monthly donation of between just £2 and £8 by around 600 individuals and companies will cover all our annual running costs.
“We appeal to all those that can help to sign up through JustGiving.”
To make a donation, visit Nith Inshore Rescue’s website at www.nithrescue.org.uk and follow the link to their JustGiving page by clicking donate on the top right of the page and choose monthly donation. Or email give@nithrecue.org.uk for other donations.
