Eyeful tower that lifeguards saved up for.

Article written by Kevin Ashford and published 29th July 1985.

Light in the storm.

Swimmers will be under an even more watchful eye thanks to a new lifeguard lookout on Canvey. The new lifeguard station on Shell beach has an improved tower for a panoramic view and more room for equipment. Canvey lifeguard Royal Lifesaving Society press officer Mrs Karen Walker said:” It has taken since March and probably cost £8,000 – £10,000. The observation tower has a longer window which means we can now get in six instead of crowding three.

Boat.

Below there’s a first-aid room with resuscitation equipment and a hot shower to help hypothermia victims. It means we’ll be able to deal with most patients injuries. There’s also room for boats underneath and we hope to buy a boat soon.

Volunteers.

We’ve raised the money ourselves and through donations and grants. We’ve been going 27 years and we’re run by volunteers. The new station’s mostly operational at the moment. It’s just a question of fixtures and fittings.” Mrs Walker said they planned an official opening next Saturday from 11 am when they hoped to give displays of their work.