A NATIONAL Coastwatch station has celebrated 20 years of watching over the shores near Swanage.

The National Coastwatch Institution (NCI) is a voluntary organisation that assists the coastguard agency and other search and rescue services with protecting life at sea and around the UK coastline.

There are currently 50 NCI stations in operation and the Swanage station on Peveril Point Road has over 40 volunteers. The group enjoyed a lunch at Purbeck House Hotel to mark the organisation’s 20th anniversary.

Stuart MacMillan Pratt, a volunteer, explained the range of work carried out by the station: “Our eyes are always on the coast and inshore waters, so we watch over the sailing club and the sea rowing club and monitor their radio frequencies.

“We also keep an eye out for people on the beach going for a swim and walkers along the coastal path. We are also charged by the UK Border Force to keep a good eye out on suspicious yachts and boats.

“The bulk of our incidents in Swanage are people chasing after animals. The dog runs off, the owner runs after it and they slip and fall off the clifftop."

Mr MacMillan Pratt said he chose to volunteer because he wanted to give something back to the community. "It's been a great honour to look after their welfare,” he added.