THE man behind plans for a new rescue boat on York’s River Ouse is appealing for help from volunteers.

Dave Benson, a doorman who has helped prevent two women from drowning in the river, wants the boat to patrol it at times when people are most at risk of falling or jumping in, such as racedays and Saturday nights.

He said he had received positive feedback from mountain rescuers and police, who thought it might help with body recovery, reporting antisocial behaviour and the possible transportation of police officers along the river, and he was now in the process of registering the organisation with the charity commission.

“I’m also looking to recruit trustees, in particular a treasurer for basic account keeping and annual returns, a secretary for minute handling, preparing and circulating agendas, fundraisers to help with collection tins and organising annual fundraising events, and eventually personnel to crew the various shifts,” he said.

“For the posts of treasurer and secretary, previous experience is preferable and for crew, previous experience would be an asset. However all training will be provided.”

Anyone interested in volunteering should email david.benson@yorkrescueboat.com, respond @yorkrescueboat on twitter or go to York Rescue Boat on Facebook.