A new inshore rescue service will soon be in operation in Findhorn Bay, Moray. 

The Moray Inshore Rescue Organisation (MIRO) is a newly formed charitable body, manned entirely by volunteers to provide a rapid rescue service for all users around the bay. 

The organisation formed after continuous rescues taking place in the bay - it can be particularly dangerous at times, with fast currents and shifting sands. 

Findhorn Bay is a narrow-mouthed inlet that stretches two miles south from the sea and opens up to a width of two miles.  As well as being the home of the Royal Findhorn Sailing Club, the stretch of coast is popular for sailing and other water sport activities.
Over the last few months MIRO has gained support from various funding sources to help with the purchase of their first rescue boat - a 5.8m Humber Destroyer with twin 60hp engines equipped to Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA) standard.
HIE Moray has committed £5,000 to help with the purchase of the boat and equipment.  Also contributing to the project are, Community Economic Development (CED), Awards for All, MIRO and the Scottish Executive's Rural Development Fund. 
HIE Moray's CED officer Kristy Conti said:  "MIRO plan to operate a service that aims to enhance Findhorn Bay as an attractive destination for visitors and benefit local businesses.  There is strong community support for a service which will complement the services of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and the MCA."
Alex Hunt, chairman of MIRO said:  "The volunteers meet every week to carry out various training and maintenance sessions.  During these sessions, members learn skills which will be needed to operate a successful organisation.  We aim to provide a rapid and effective rescue service across the area, and we are please with all the funding contributions that we have received so far.  As part of our commitment to make Findhorn Bay a safer place, the organisation will be equipped with the latest equipment available."
As well as boat handling and basic seamanship, MIRO also have sessions on radio operating, first aid, engine maintenance, sea survival, search and rescue and various other skills which the volunteer crew will need.  Before being declared operational, the equipment and crew will be checked and assessed by the MCA.
Ends. 
Note to newsdesks:
The Highlands and Islands Enterprise network (HIE) is responsible for economic and community development in an area which covers more than half of Scotland, from Shetland to Argyll.  HIE's headquarters are in Inverness and most of its services are delivered through local enterprise companies.
The Network employs around 550 people and last year invested more than £100 million to help people living in the Highlands and Islands realise their full potential.