Maryport Rescue has received a grant of nearly £20,000 to train volunteers.

The £19, 980 award from UK Search and Rescue (SAR) comes just a month after the volunteer rescue service received £30,000 from the Department of Transport towards a new engine for its decade-old rescue boat.

The money is from UK SAR's voluntary training fund and will ensure that all Maryport's rescue volunteers are trained up to the required standard needed for operational duties.

Station officer Mike Messenger said: "We are really happy to receive this grant which will be of huge benefit."

He said the group, which relies totally on donations, is also looking for more volunteers.

"No experience is necessary. Volunteers will receive any training needed."

He said the service is especially interested in hearing from people living and working in Maryport who would be available to call-outs during the day.