HOVERCRAFT tested in Morecambe could soon become a vital part of the lifeboat fleet after successful trials in Morecambe Bay.
Trials took lace last Summer and the RNLI will spend the next few months evaluating where a hovercraft may be useful.
The first operational craft should be on station in January 2003.
"RNLI lifeboats often have to operate in estuaries or close inshore where the conditions present problems for waterborne craft," said staff officer Hugh Fogarty.
"The trials confirm that hovercraft could work over different terrains and the volunteers crews could easily 'fly' them, helping us to reach people more quickly and save more life."
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