Belfast MRCC celebrate two hundredth birthday

Coastguard staff and volunteers past and present are today joining together to mark two hundred years of keeping people safe around Northern Ireland’s coast.

It’s part of the bi-centenary celebrations for Her Majesty’s Coastguard, recognising the unique contribution that each area of the UK has made to the service.

It is part of a virtual voyage around the UK in 2022 that will see each of the 10 rescue coordination centres ‘take a moment’ to celebrate two hundred years of their local communities supporting – and working or volunteering for – HM Coastguard.

The Northern Irish coast is famous for its unique beauty with the Giant’s Causeway, sandy beaches and long, rugged coastline – but it is the seaside communities deeply embedded in the maritime traditions that have been the backbone of HM Coastguard.

HM Coastguard serves tirelessly to keep everyone safe and has been since its creation in 1822.

On 15 May, Belfast Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) will be celebrating all those who have worked and volunteered tirelessly for HM Coastguard during that history.

Senior officers of HM Coastguard and the RNLI will attend the celebratory day, alongside police, the fire service, ambulance service and local dignitaries.

North coast of County Antrim, where the Giant's Causeway - the site of Northern Ireland's most famous landmark - is located


HM Coastguard Divisional Commander for Northern Ireland Sue Todd said: “We are so proud to be part of an organisation whose mission it is to search and rescue – we are all proud to work with each other and I think I can speak for us all to say that we are aware of the weight of history and the pride that brings.

“HM Coastguard has rescued countless lives in two hundred years, and everyone we bring home adds to that wonderful tally further.

“This is a true opportunity to celebrate everyone that has been a part of making the service what it is, from the past to the present and into the future. I hope everyone can take a moment to appreciate their own achievements and take pride in our service.”

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