HM Coastguard

The story of HM Coastguard sometimes sounds like a fairytale with smugglers and pirates, but that’s the truth of its origins. Originally developed as an anti-smuggling force more than 200 years ago, the Coastguard has become a world leader in maritime search and rescue. With modern technology and assistance from partner organisations today’s Coastguard can mobilise lifeboats, helicopters, towing vessels or cliff rescuers with the touch of a button.