A VOLUNTEER lifeguard club has been awarded a grant of £12,000 by the UK's Maritime Minister.

The Rt Hon John Hayes CBE MP looked through the applications from inshore and inland rescue boat teams as part of a five-year £5million scheme run by the Department of Transport and announced as part of the 2014 budget statement.

Bournemouth Lifeguard Corps, which are based in Durley Chine, have been granted £12,284 in funding as part of the scheme.

The grants support charities running local lifeboat and rescue services, helping those in danger on and around inland and inshore waterways, including during flooding and other incidents. The money can be used to buy new lifeboats and other equipment such as lifejackets and safety gear.

John Hayes, the Martitime Minister, said: "Every day countless volunteers in water rescue charities across our island nation carry out vital work during emergencies, not only around our coasts but also keeping our rivers, lakes and inshore waters safe.

"I am delighted to be able to announce the latest round of funding, ensuring they have the equipment and resources they need to provide their round-the-clock lifesaving services."

Solent Rescue, which is based in Lepe in Hampshire, also received a grant from the scheme of £22,600. In total nearly £1million was awarded to 66 water rescue charities across the UK.