The Derry-based lifesaving charity Foyle Search and Rescue will hold a gala ball in the City Hotel tonight to celebrate its 20th anniversary.
Foyle Search and Rescue was established as a charity in July 1993 and has adopted the role of protecting human life in and around the River Foyle in Derry, recognised as one of the most dangerous and fastest flowing rivers in Europe, infamous for its high level of mortality.
The charity and its volunteers are keenly aware of the huge responsibility that goes with this role. Their dedication in patrolling the river and its banks in all seasons and in all weathers is the single greatest asset of Foyle Search and Rescue.
Working in association with the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, PSNI, Irish Coast Guard, RNLI and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, the persistence and dedication of its volunteers is a constant source of amazement to many people.
During its existence interventions by its members have saved many lives and brought comfort to many bereaved families, which inspires its volunteers to continually dedicate their time and skill to the charity.
It is this amazing dedication by men and women of all ages and backgrounds that enables the group to face the challenges of the future with confidence.
Foyle Search and Rescue has grown to be a source of comfort to many who look to them not only to search for those who are missing, but more importantly to prevent people entering and dying in the river.
The group have formalised and established an effective suicide prevention strategy that will continue to save lives through: prevention by its presence on duty nights and intervention through physical, personal contact.
And while many members and guests will be celebrating the group’s anniversary, dedicated volunteers will miss tonight’s black-tie event in order to patrol the city’s riverside walkways and bridges to prevent loss of life or injury and
