THE NATIONAL Coastwatch Institution (NCI) resumed watch keeping from Needles Lookout from 9am this morning (Saturday).

Having been forced to close owing to the current pandemic, the trustees have made the decision to reopen the watch in light of the Government easing lockdown provisions and the return of significant commercial and leisure vessel movements.

To safeguard the health of volunteers, the station will be single manned with a remote buddy on call to assist if necessary.

In addition, there is robust risk management in place to ensure compliance with best practice in maintaining a safe environment.

Boat owners will be able to contact NCI on Marine VHF Channel 65 for current weather and sea state, radio and AIS checks.