Revolutionary boathouse takes shape

A revolutionary build design enabled the steel structure framework to be erected in just four hours.

It is the first design of its kind to be used anywhere on the South Coast.

David Martin, from Pett Level Rescue, said: “It is also green as the framework is made from recycled cars.”

The building design was developed to be used in erecting new schools in Kenya and other parts of Africa, where it has been used successfully.

The new boathouse has been made possible by an amazing fund-raising effort led by local volunteers who have had help and support from businesses and local authorities such as Rother Council.

A total of £25,000 has been raised so far, which has allowed building work to commence, but they still need to raise a further £10,000 to hit their target.

The campaign has been helped by a scheme launched by local fund raiser John Pulfer to buy a virtual brick.

People can buy a different sized brick space and write a message of their choice or dedication to a loved one on it. These messages will then be displayed on the wall of the finished boathouse.

Building work will be finished in the next few weeks.

The new boathouse will mean the tractor used to tow the rescue boat to the sea can be stored alongside the boat.

David Martin said this will shave ten minutes off of launch response times.

The Rescue Boat was founded in 1971 and has been entirely manned and funded by volunteers.

It has been used on numerous occasions to assist RNLI lifeboats at Hastings and Rye in coastal rescue and has even been used inland to go the aid of flood victims at Robertsbridge.

If you would like to know more about the new boathouse project or want to donate contact John Pulfer on 01424 814866.