COASTGUARD Rescue Teams up and down the country celebrated the service’s 200 year anniversary on January 15.

Ardrossan’s Coastguard marked the special day by casting safety throw lines into the sea at the town’s South Beach, which also indicated the heritage of a simple but effective piece of life saving equipment.

On January 15 1822, Her Majesty’s Coastguard was formally brought into existence and has been working to keep people safe at the coast and sea ever since.

Maritime Minister, Robert Courts said: “Congratulations HM Coastguard on their 200-year anniversary.

“I am immensely proud and humbled by the continued dedication and professionalism from the staff and volunteers which ensures everyone’s safety on our shores and around our coast.

“HM Coastguard is the backbone of our maritime sector and the nation is indebted to its incredible workforce which continues to deliver an exceptional service.”

Claire Hughes, director of HM Coastguard said: “When you look at how we started and where we are now, it’s easy to celebrate the innovation and development that can be seen throughout the service.

“And yet, we are far more proud of the people, the volunteers and the staff who throughout two centuries have continued to strive to keep people safe at the coast and out at sea.

“We always have and always will respond to those in distress.

“While this milestone is an opportunity for us to look back with pride on what we’ve achieved, we have always looked to the future, and I’m proud that we continue to look for ways in which to improve and save lives.

“I’m proud of the commitment, the dedication and selfless sacrifice and I’m proud of how the service has developed and continues to do so.”

The day before its birthday, the Rescue Team alongside police, fire crews and ambulance services were called to reports of a car being plunged into Saltcoats harbour.

The driver was rescued from the vehicle and was taken to Saltcoats hospital.

For more information on the Ardrossan Coastguard service, search Ardrossan Coastguard Rescue Team on Facebook, or visit gov.uk/organisations.