While most people have heard of HM Coastguard or the RNLI, far fewer know of the National Coastwatch Institution, but its volunteers are often the first eyes on incidents or emergencies along the coastline.

The National Coastwatch Institution (NCI) is a voluntary organisation that was founded in Cornwall in 1994, following the deaths of two local fishermen within sight of a coastguard station that had been recently closed amid national reorganisation. 

Following a campaign to re-establish a visual coastal watch, the first NCI station was opened at Bass Point on The Lizard Peninsula, and it has since grown to become the 'eyes along the coast', with 59 stations around the coastline of England and Wales.

The main station of NCI Lyme Bay has been based at Hive Beach in Burton Bradstock since 2010. An additional satellite station was opened in Charmouth in 2016, based in a tiny former lookout, built in 1804 and owned by the parish council.

The volunteers – including a station manager, two deputies and a team of more than 90 watch keepers – keep a close eye on those making the most of this popular stretch of the Jurassic Coast 364 days a year (they get Christmas Day off!).

They look out for any incidents or safety concerns and report these to HM Coastguard. In the case of Lyme Bay, to Solent Coastguard, who will then take the decision whether to launch the local coast rescue teams in Lyme Regis or West Bay, or the lifeboat crew. 

The NCI volunteers work with HM Coastguard, the RNLI and other emergency services, often directing crews to the site of an incident via VHF radios, but do not carry out rescues themselves. They can also offer advice to beach goers on inshore water conditions and tide times. 

NCI Lyme Bay has Declared Facility Status, meaning it is officially recognised as part of the Maritime Search and Rescue emergency services. It undergoes an assessment annually to meet this standard, ensuring its protocols, volunteer training and operations meet the high standards required. 

The National Coastwatch Institution is a registered charity and the Lyme Bay branch carries out all of its own fundraising. This year, the volunteers will be running stands at the Axe Vale Show in Axminster and Melplash Show in Bridport, as well as additional stalls to raise funds and awareness in Bridport town centre.

They are also currently looking for new volunteers, particularly to increase the level of cover in Charmouth. For more information, visit https://www.nci.org.uk/ or to contact Lyme Bay station manager by emailing [email protected]