PICTURES: Findochty Water Sports Club unveil public access life-saving equipment
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FINDOCHTY Water Sports Club (FWSC) has become a life-saving equipment hub for the village thanks to a generous donation.
The club recently took possession of first aid kits and an emergency kit thanks to the Gordon and Ena Baxter Foundation.
Welcoming the donation, Jim Addison from the club said: "A first aid kit and the emergency kit have been located on the external wall of the clubhouse – The Howff – and are within easy reach of harbour users, visitors and the wider village community.
"Together with the complementing Keiran's Legacy defibrillator a 'go-to point' has been established for possible life-saving equipment in the village. The equipment is alarmed but always accessible. Two further light-weight kits were also donated for use aboard the club’s rowing skiffs.
"The idea for the equipment followed on from a club visit to RNLI Buckie which enthused the club members to up the standards of their existing equipment and training."
On hand to present the equipment was foundation chairman George McIntyre.
He commented: "It was great to be invited along to the Findochty Water Sports Club and the Gordon and Ena Baxter Foundation was delighted to be able to assist in the purchase of this life-saving equipment.
"Safety is very important, especially at sea, and some of the equipment will be available to the public. It's a real community response, which is excellent to see.
"One of the things the foundation looks for when giving grants is groups actively trying to help themselves and their community. An element of community buy-in is very important and we're delighted to see how much of that there is here."
In addition to the equipment hand-over, some of the club members were eager to take one of the FWSC St Ayles skiffs – Morven – out for a jaunt around Craigenroan before returning to the harbour.
Findochty Water Sports Club was formed in 1983 and caters mainly for sailing boats, creel boats and coastal rowers, but all types of boats and water sports are welcome
The Gordon and Ena Baxter Foundation’s mission is to help make a real difference in local communities. The foundation’s trustees meet regularly to consider applications for support from across across the north-east of Scotland and the Highlands and Islands which demonstrate a positive and lasting impact for people living locally.
To find out more about the work of the foundation or to apply for a grant, visit https://www.gebfoundation.com/ or visit their Facebook page.
