Two members of the Northumbria Unit of the Maritime Volunteer Service have gained important nautical qualifications during lockdown.
Head of Unit Angela Carrington and Malcolm Stephenson have studied hard to get their Day Skipper (shore based) qualification which is recognised by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA).
Nationally, the MVS has more than 25 active units spread around the UK coastline at major port and river areas, with more units planned. Northumbria Unit is based at St Peter’s Marina on the Tyne although their vessels can operate from the Tweed to the Tees.
During lockdown the unit has regularly met via Zoom to carry out theory training and it is hoped that their two vessels “Tyne Spirit” and “Northumberland Freemason|” will be back on the water soon.
Deputy Head of Unit Jen Mitchelson said: “Angela and Malcolm have worked hard to get this qualification and we are all very proud of their efforts and look forward to them sharing their knowledge to us all.”
The aim of the MVS is to keep the country’s maritime traditions alive. Practical training in seamanship, small boat handling, engineering and communications helps to achieve this. The unit played an active role in Tall Ships in Sunderland and Blyth.
Anyone wishing to know more about the MVS can email angela@mvs-northumbria.org.uk
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Photo: Angela and Malcolm with their certificates (The Bigger Picture)
Contact keith@highlightspr.co.uk 07814 397951
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