Moray Inshore Rescue is an independent rescue service manned entirely by volunteers, and funded by the generosity of the general public and local businesses.

Many thanks go to every member of our dedicated fund raising group for their efforts throughout the year, and without whose tireless efforts Moray Inshore Rescue would not exist.

Everyone associated with Moray Inshore Rescue is an unpaid volunteer and every penny donated to Moray Inshore Rescue goes directly into the charity funds. Nothing is deducted for administration or third parties.

History

The Moray Inshore Rescue Organisation (MIRO) was first formed in July of 2005 when it became apparent that there was a real need for a dedicated rescue service to cover Findhorn bay and its approaches. The Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA) subsequently agreed with the need for a dedicated rescue service and tasked MIRO to cover not only Findhorn bay and its approaches but also the inshore waters of the Moray Firth between Burghead and Nairn.

In August 2005 MIRO launched it first boat, a 5.8m Humber Destroyer. The launch of the Glyn Whitehead was made by the tireless efforts of members of the original committee to raise the funds required in order to purchase the boat and equipment. The boat was named after a Findhorn sailor who tragically lost his life at sea during 2003

In August 2007 MIRO was named by the MCA as a declared facility and began operating its fully dedicated service with volunteers on call 24/7. MIRO is manned entirely by volunteers who give up their time to train, raise funds and save lives.

Tasking

From its base at Findhorn Boatyard and Marina, MIRO operates a Category C Inshore Rescue Boat (IRB). MIRO is tasked by the MCA to respond to incidents within Findhorn bay and its approaches and also the inshore waters of the Moray Firth between Burghead and Nairn. Inshore waters are defined as up to 3 miles offshore. As part of the UK Search and Rescue (SAR) network it is MIROs task to work alongside the RNLI and MCA.

As a declared asset MIRO is required to keep the local coastguard control centre at Aberdeen up dated with the current position and state of the boat this is particularly important during training sessions when Aberdeen Coastguard receive regular status reports

MIRO’s Mission is two-fold

· The protection of life by the provision and maintenance of an inshore rescue facility available for use in any emergency life saving situation connected with use by the general public in the inland and coastal waters around Findhorn Bay

· To support Coastguard and RNLI operations where possible in the vicinity of Findhorn Bay and its approaches.