A showcase of the assets available from partners across Dorset to assist in search and rescue operation went on display.

The event was organised by RNLI and the Dorset Local Search And Rescue Committee (LSARC) - which involves Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

The committee is dedicated to providing a joined up and effective casualty centred approach to response as well as joint training, effective communication and ensuring each organisation has a wide knowledge of other agencies capabilities, resources and activities.

John Powell, from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We are very grateful to RNLI for hosting this exciting showcase. It is extremely important for each member organisation to ensure that their staff are fully aware of what capabilities and assets are available across Dorset should search and rescue be required. These operations are usually time critical and being aware and able to call on these resources can mean the difference between life and death."

Rob Sansom from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency added: "This working relationship has proved itself worthwhile time after time during large searches and rescue incidents such as we've seen in the past few months."

The Dorset LSARC is comprised of:

* Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue

* HM Coastguard

* RNLI

* Dorset Police

* South West Ambulance Service Foundation Trust

* Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance

* Poole Harbour Master

* Weymouth Harbour Master

* Portland Harbour Authority

* Dorset Civil Contingencies Unit

* Wessex Flood

* Wessex 4x4 Response

* Maritime and Coastguard Agency

* DORSAR

* National Coast Watch

* Dorset County Council Emergency Planning

* Wessex Lifesaving