30 July 2010

Since early spring Shoreham Harbour Patrol have been routinely patrolling the waters, assisting the Harbour Master with incident investigation, enforcement of byelaws, and educating harbour users of safety on the water.
During the busy summer season, there is an increase of activity and small vessel usage of the Harbour. The port patrol team take to the water in the Patrol Vessel Spica, checking that all vessels are displaying valid Harbour Dues, working in partnership with other authorities/organisations such as Sussex Police and HM Coastguard. Generally, the patrol vessels will have two crew members on board, a qualified Duty Helm and a Crew. Several of the Shoreham Port office staff volunteered to take to the water and have been keen to learn all aspects of marine operations.
Harbour Master, Julian Seaman, said, 'There has been an increase in recent years in the number of personal water craft using the harbour, many of which have powerful engines. However, most of the harbour users have been supportive of our aim, and do co-operate and adhere to our byelaws. Our presence on the water has been very effective. It is essential that all harbour users respect and keep within our speed limits to ensure the safety of everyone using the harbour'.