Hemsby Inshore Rescue Service: Douglas Kemp
Hemsby lifeboat crew profiles. Douglas Kemp. - Credit: Nick Butcher
As part of the Mercury campaign to help Hemsby Inshore Rescue Service raise the money it needs to keep saving lives offshore and on the Broads, we will be getting to know the crew, who are all volunteers, who keep the service running not just out on the water but behind the scenes too.
This week we spoke to crew member, Douglas Kemp.
Douglas has volunteered for the lifeboat for eight months, recently becoming fully trained up as a full crew member.
“I got involved to help people who get in trouble,” said Douglas, who works for himself hiring out bouncy castles in Martham.
“I have had some problems in the past with my health and a lot of people have helped me get through it, so now it’s my turn to help others.”
Although Douglas, who has lived in Martham for 29 years, has only been on a few call outs, he – along with many other members of the crew – remember a particularly poignant night.
“My most memorable job was at Thorpe Marshes, where sadly the children involved passed away,” said Douglas.
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“And I’ve also been the driver for the broads boat a couple of times, where the crew have gone out and I’ve been ready if they need back up.”
Like many of the crew, Douglas enjoys the camaraderie of the team.
“It’s nice that we all pull together and if you have a problem, we all muck in and sort it out – that’s good team work!
“I know that times are hard,” added the 43-year-old.
“But if the public can donates anything that’s great, because we always need new equipment and to maintain the equipment we already have.
“If we have the right gear, it makes it easier to help people.”
As part of Douglas’ role, he also distributes the collections pots which raise valuable funds for Hemsby Lifeboat.
“If anyone would like one for their business then please give the shed a call and I’ll bring one out.”
To find out more about Hemsby Inshore Rescue Service, or to put yourself forward as a volunteer, get in contact by calling 01493 731641 or emailing contact@hemsbyinshorerescue.org.uk
