THE Ardrossan Coastguard Rescue Team recently joined colleagues from across Area 4 (West) to visit the Special Operations Response Team (SORT) from the Scottish Ambulance Service.

The evening began with a corporate presentation by the SORT West Operations Manager outlining the history, roles, responsibilities and capabilities of the team and highlighting the key types of incidents where the team would deploy.

Following the input and after breaking into smaller groups, a full tour and demonstration was provided by the SORT staff showcasing the wide range of vehicles used and equipment available for a host of operational situations including major incidents, and water rescue.

Coastguard Rescue Teams routinely work alongside the SORT including incidents on the River Clyde in Glasgow and difficult casualty extractions along the coast.

The Ardrossan team thanked their ambulance colleagues for the hospitality and look forward to organising some joint training exercises in the near future.