THIS time last year Dave Benson found himself sitting in the back of a car armed with nothing more than an idea, a banner asking for donations and a collecting pot containing £15.

Yesterday, Dave’s dream came true as the boat he has so tirelessly fought for took to the Ouse at Acaster Malbis for trials. Now it is just months away from becoming operational.

Dave’s brilliant idea came about after he saved a woman who was attempting to jump off Ouse Bridge and from throwing life belts in to the river to rescue people who had jumped in.

He saw a real need and now the York Rescue Boat will be a fantastic addition to our emergency services. Even when not saving lives on the water, it will play a part in increasing awareness, by visiting local schools to educate children about the importance of river safety.

A year ago it was a dream, now York’s rescue boat is a reality. Well done Dave, we salute you.