On August 27th, Bank Holiday Monday, an intrepid band of six members of Portsmouth and Southsea Voluntary Lifeguards will be abseiling down the Spinnaker Tower in their dry suit kit to raise money for our Charity.

The organisation has served the people of Portsmouth and Southsea since 1933 and are the oldest Beach Lifeguard Club in the United Kingdom. Their membership consists of members of the local community, from office workers, to mechanics, nurses, students and many more. All of which are immensely proud to serve their local community.

The Spinnaker is particularly special to us as it is not only the symbol of Portsmouth but it is also opposite the Camber, where they launch ‘Portsea Rescue 1’.

On average they assist just under one hundred people in the summer season, almost one person per day. This can range from land based first aid to multi agency support for major incidents. This year has been particularly busy with a noticeable increase in demand.

Alexia Daniels describes how they got involved, “I joined a year ago. I was walking along the seafront with friends and saw Portsea Rescue 1 parked in front of the Lifeguards’ hut. I asked how I could join and have never looked back. Portsmouth and Southsea Voluntary Lifeguards (PVSL) have made me reevaluate what I am capable of and continue to challenge me to keep pushing myself to do more. It is, in the truest sense, a team and a testament to the faith they put in those willing to give their time. People who know me cannot believe the things I can now do. The Spinnaker Abseil frankly terrifies me but it is a small ask and with my team, I will do this with a dry suit and bells if necessary!”

The team consist of Roly, Luke, Alex and Cy who are our coxswains, Alexia who is training for Crew 1 certification and Becky who is one of her colleagues from her day job in the NHS.

These guys and girls put themselves in danger to save lives on a regular basis. The team do a great job with nowhere near the credit they deserve. They would really appreciate your support, even if you can only spare pennies. It all adds up and goes towards an important cause. If you would like to show your support then you get involved at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/alex-boyd3.

Website: portsmouthlifeguards.org
Facebook: facebook.com/pages/Portsmouth-and-Southsea-Voluntary-Lifeguards