The Coastguard Station at Rock‑A‑Nore opened its doors to the public last Saturday (8 August) as part of the Hastings Carnival Week celebrations. Officer in Charge Michael Lawless told visitors that volunteering with HM Coastguard was “one of the most grounding and rewarding things he has ever done.”

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Michael Lawless and volunteers of the Hastings Coastguard Rescue Team

Speaking with evident passion, he added: “Coastguarding constantly sharpens skills, whether it’s rope rescue, flood rescue, casualty care, or decision-making under pressure. Training and callouts happen in all conditions – dark, cold, wet, tired – and that’s where resilience is really built. You learn to stay calm, communicate clearly, trust your team, and keep going when things are uncomfortable.”

HM Coastguard is currently seeking new volunteers to carry out rescues and assist those in distress around our shores. If you are interested, please contact: gov.uk/volunteer-as-a-coastguard


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https://www.hastingsindependentpress.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/NEWS_HM-Coastguard-1024x768.jpghttps://www.hastingsindependentpress.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/NEWS_HM-Coastguard-150x150.jpgHIPCommunityMichael Lawless,Rock-a-noreThe Coastguard Station at Rock‑A‑Nore opened its doors to the public last Saturday (8 August) as part of the Hastings Carnival Week celebrations. Officer in Charge Michael Lawless told visitors that volunteering with HM Coastguard was “one of the most grounding and rewarding things he has ever done.” Michael Lawless...The Hastings & St Leonards non-profit community newspaper