George congratulates NCI on obtaining VHF channel

West Cornwall MP, Andrew George, has congratulated the National Coastwatch Institution (NCI) on obtaining a dedicated VHF Channel. Ofcom offered the NCI exclusive use of VHF Channel 65. This facility is scheduled to become operational on 1 October 2014 when National Coastwatch stations will go live for the first time on Channel 65.

Channel 65 will facilitate communications between NCI lookouts and seafarers on a variety of routine matters. Stations will be able to respond to requests from passing, as well as local sailing craft and fishing vessels for radio checks as well as actual weather and sea state conditions. They will also be able to provide on request information on a range of local facilities including, for example, local moorings, charted anchorages, water taxi contact details and local hazards.

Mr George, who is a patron of the NCI, said, “I offer my congratulations to the NCI on obtaining the VHF channel. This is a significant development for the NCI. The confirmation of a dedicated VHF channel adds yet another string to the bow to this impressive voluntary organisation.

“Earlier this week it was my privilege to visit the St Ives branch of the NCI and once again witness the vital contribution that the NCI makes to safety around our coasts. Obtaining an exclusive VHF channel is a feather in their cap and a string to their bow.”