Scillies' floating ambulance back in action (From Boating Cornwall)

Scillies' floating ambulance back in action

9:00am Thursday 31st March 2011 in Sailing

Falmouth Boat Construction have finished the extensive refit of the Isle of Scillies Floating Ambulance, 'Star of Life'.

The work included a complete exterior repaint, the removal of the total paint system from the Aluminium Catamaran and application of new coatings and livery.

Internally, a new cabin layout to suit casualties care and access with a new bulkhead and doorway was fitted.

Windows and storage facilities were revamped, complimented by complete engine and services check with the addition of a new electronic navigation equipment to help with passage around the isles.

Martin Browne, who headed the team, said: "It was an interesting refit if not a little strange, with it being an ambulance."

"The rear cabin has very similar lay out to the road versions however, with stretcher stowage and onboard treatment area."

Owen Taylor, Falmouth boat constructions yard manager said: "We are pleased to have been chosen for the refit and hope to continue to look after the Star of Life in the future."

"It certainly was a different style of refit but all the staff took quickly to the job and produced a first class finish in the time frame we were given."

"The vessel is now back in Scilly were she continues adding valuable support to the people of the isles as well as all the expected visitors."

Other work in the busy boatyard consists of the latest RNLI refit, a Mersey class Life boat from Aldeburgh in Suffolk this is expected to be complete by mid May and should be followed by another full refit of a more local station boat from St Ives.