8 Nov 2010  Every station enjoys being the recipient of thanks and praise for their courtesy and friendliness to visiting members of the public while explaining what they do. NCI Nells Point is no exception and was very pleased to be the subject of a particularly glowing letter of thanks for their time from a recent visitor to the lookout.

Dear Sir,

I just wanted to write and pass on my praise for your team at the Nell's Point, Barry Island station.

I live in landlocked Birmingham, so the sea is a novelty to me! I was on a recent visit to family in Barry and we went for a walk past the station, pausing to be a bit 'touristy' and take a few photos. One of your team called out to us and asked if, in return for a small donation, we would like a tour of the station as they were rather quiet. We said yes and we were extremely pleased we did!

Knowing nothing of your organisation it was a very educational experience. Your staff were so knowledgeable and friendly and were more than happy to explain what all the equipment did, why you have three radios and what they do, and give us a look through their binoculars to some of the coastal resorts on the other side of the channel (sadly the weather wasn't fab but it was still brilliant). They also explained about why the organisation was set up, how they help, what logs they keep and why and their role in an emergency. On the day we visited there was only one ship in the bay to monitor (dredging) but they also told us about how they had been monitoring a group of canoeists to ensure they returned safely and shared other examples of what they do.

We had to cut our visit short and sadly could only leave a small donation at the time as we hadn't been expecting to visit, but the friendliness and knowledge of your staff has inspired me to want to donate further online and tell everyone I know about what a worthwhile organisation you are. Your team were very well presented in your uniform, extremely helpful, friendly, polite and very professional. I'd be very pleased by such service by paid staff, but exceptionally so by volunteers.

I've emailed the station directly to thank them for their time but I also wanted to let you know what a credit they were to the organisation. As an awareness tool, tours of your station are a totally wonderful idea and it really added an extra sparkle to our trip whilst opening my eyes to what a vital support service you are.

I hope that despite these difficult financial times you are able to continue your important work.

Very best wishes,

Gwen Webb

Birmingham - UK