Interviews with Local Partners – Peter Boyce, National Coastwatch Institution

What is the role of a Coastwatch volunteer? What do you do and when do you do it?

The key expression for the National Coastwatch Institution (NCI) is ‘Eyes Along the Coast’. The role is to support the Coastguard by being able to see incidents at sea or along the coast path and assist in aiding those in trouble, in ways radios and electronics can’t do. We have radios, big binos, radar and strong links to the Coastguard control centre. The Lookout at St Alban’s Head is 325 feet above sea level and gives an excellent view out to sea, from Portland Bill to Anvil Point at Durlston. We operate two watches per day, 9am to 5pm, 364 days a year. Each Watchkeeper would, in normal times(!) do 4 watches per month. About 50 volunteers provide the personnel to meet that need.

How long have you been in the Coastwatch and what does it mean to you?

I’ve been in for about three years. I live in Kingston (and so am the second closest Watchkeeper to St Alban’s Head) and so quite nearby. It enables me to do some positive volunteering in a valuable role, in a stunning location – not a bad place to spend a few hours!

What is the most challenging part of your role?

Getting there could be for some. With the right kind of vehicle, you can drive to the Lookout but, for many (including me) it involves a walk from Renscombe car park in all weathers. This can be a lovely walk – or very cold and wet.

What is the most enjoyable part of your role?

The location itself is amazing, with lovely views and regular sightings of the local Peregrine Falcons. Spending time with other Watchkeepers and visiting members of the public is also an enjoyable part of a Watch.

How does someone get involved in the Coast watch?

Come along to one of our locations and talk to the Watchkeepers. If you’re interested, a training programme will be put in place. In our area, there are three stations. Ours at St Alban’s Head, Swanage NCI at Peveril Point in Swanage, and Portland NCI at Portland Bill. Next along is the relatively new lookout at Hengistbury Head at Christchurch. Alternatively, take a look at the NCI website.

Lastly tell us about you, what do you get up to when you’re not Coast watching?

I’m one of the Directors of Cumulus Outdoors!