Moray and Banffshire Heroes Awards: Emergency Service of the Year
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There's a definite maritime theme to the Emergency Services category of the Moray and Banffshire Heroes awards.
The twin contenders for the prize are Buckie RNLI and HM Coastguard Moray who have both been shortlisted due to their brave and dangerous work.
The 23 lifeboat and six shore crew in Buckie provide 24-hour search and rescue cover for anyone who gets into difficulties.
Operation manager Anne Scott said: "It's so good for the team to have been nominated.
"Such recognition helps us raise awareness about safety both on the beach and at sea.
"We're all volunteers and, as a charity, we don't receive any government funding so public recognition like this goes a long way in promoting what we do,"
"Some of our crew have been with us for more than 30 years and have a lot of experience to pass on.
"Not many of our crew had any direct maritime experience but they all share one thing – a commitment to saving lives."
HM Coastguard also provide a 24-hour search and rescue service to those in peril on the sea.
Last year they responded to more than 175 operations tasks, which included securing disabled vessels, plus rope and water rescues.
One of their nominations said: "HM Coastguard Moray is often forgotten or overlooked, but the team are always on standby.
"They assist in searches for missing people, and rescues from the water and the cliffs."
Colin Wood, a senior coastal operations manager, said: "We know when the call comes in it's because somebody somewhere needs our help.
"We are truly honoured to be nominated. It's always extra special when you know it's from the community that you serve in."
"Nobody does this for an award, but it has filled our hearts to know that local people value what we do."
Fittingly, the Emergency Services category is being sponsored by Motive Offshore, the Banff-based energy industry specialist.
CEO Dave Acton said: "Our emergency services do an outstanding job. Although we all hope we never need them, the are always there when we do.
"This award will go some small way to show how much we all value their work."
The Moray and Banffshire Heroes awards have 12 different categories.
The dozen winners – plus a special Hero of Heroes – will be revealed on Thursday, April 20 at Brodie Countryfare.
Votes can be cast until this Sunday.
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