So we have picked up the folding rescue boat now. AKD has bought it from a client who had one and has only been used a few times. These boats are very hard to get hold of now.

It is made from a hardened plastic and 3.7m long. Seats 4 people and took us about 5 minutes to unfold and put together. Fits easily in the Luton van or on a roof rack. There is also a 2-stroke 8HP Yamaha outboard that was included and we are told the boat can reach about 15 knots, which is more than enough for rescue we think.

We are yet to trial it with picking up stranded boats which will be done in the middle of May. We may look to put something like a waterproof bean-bag or foam padding at the front for boats to lay on when they are being taken back to shore.