A band of volunteer life savers are looking for a caravan to use as an office.

The Southend Coast Watch is the only coastguard operation in the country which is based in one place.

The official coastguard moves up and down the coastline, keeping an eye on swimmers and sailors.

The caravan will be based on the end of Southend Pier, which coast watch members say is an excellent look-out point.

Duty controller Ricki Shield said: "We play a very important role.

"The official coast guards do a very good job, but they move up and down the shoreline, they do not stay in the same place like we do.

"By staying in one place people always know where we are and they can come and tell us if they notice someone is in trouble in the sea.

"Ships can also contact us if they run into difficulties because they know someone will always be at the station to receive any distress signals they might send.

"We take the SOS messages and then signal the RNLI and the coastguards."

The 24-hour watch, which was started up six months ago, is also looking for volunteers to join the present 10 members.

If you want to find out more about the Southend Coast Watch contact Ricki Shield on 01702 476679.

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