SEVERN Area Rescue Association (SARA) this week launched a fundraising appeal which will lead to improved safety on the Rivers Severn and Wye.

The charity hopes to raise £300,000 to develop its premises at Chepstow and provide secure shelter for three lifeboats close to the Beachley slipway.

A new operations control room and a dedicated training room, where SARA will be able to continue its vital work in water safety awareness, is also planned above the existing boathouse.

Planning permission has already been granted.

Pete Wischhusen SARA's executive fundraiser, said: "Recent tragic events show how important it is for us to continue our awareness work. God willing we may be able to complete the project and begin using the facility before the next summer holidays.

"The new facility will also mean we can provide an even quicker response to emergencies and ultimately this could make the difference between life and death."

He acknowledged that the fund raising target was ambitious but as well as donations from local people the Association was also hoping for help from charitable trusts.

"I'm delighted that we're starting the appeal with £2000 from Chepstow Plant International Ltd and £500 from the Rotary Club of the Royal Forest of Dean," said Pete. "This is a really encouraging start and I want to thank them for their support."

Support has also come from the local Coastguard and from Gwent Police. Deputy Chief Constable Mick Giannasi wrote to SARA saying: "In over 30 years involvement with SARA, we have found their prompt and professional response has prevented lives being lost. This new facility will further improve the excellent response times SARA achieves."

People wishing to organise fund raising events should contact Pete Wischhusen on 01594 510349 for more information.

Cheques should be made payable to "SARA Build Account" and sent to The Lifeboat Station, Beachley, Chepstow, Monmouthshire, NP16 7HH.