WINTER STORMS - NORTH NORFOLK DEVASTATION

In the face of the worst tidal surge in more than 60 years, Coastguards up and down the east coast of England were facing treacherous conditions during the night of 5th December 2013.

Tony Garbutt was called late afternoon and asked to assist with evacuations of properties at Walcott. He, along with the Happisburgh and Mundesley Coastguard Rescue Team, were out in the dark, battling the elements, but were on hand throughout to ensure everyone got out safely.

There was also big concern about the coastal erosion at Happisburgh. With the worsening conditions, Tony and his team escorted people from their houses to safety.

Tony and the teams worked through the night and into the next day to ensure the safety of the public. He was on scene for almost 24 hours.




Richard Martin, Chief Coastguard says, 
“Coastguards have worked tirelessly over the past few months as storms and tidal surges have battered many parts of the UK coastline. I'd like to take a moment to thank them all for their sterling efforts in what have been very challenging conditions.

“From the staff coordinating efforts in our Coastguard centres, to those rescue officers out in their communities, so many have given up their free time to help out. Some have done so in the early hours, on Christmas Eve into Christmas Day and even spending time away from loved ones on Valentine’s Day.

“Over the next few days and weeks, we’ll be featuring some examples of the work carried out by Coastguards during the storms. My thanks again to everyone involved in the storm rescue efforts as we all worked together to help keep the public safe.”




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