RYDE Inshore Rescue has been helped to buy vital equipment - thanks to a building society members’ small change.

Yorkshire Building Society Charitable Foundation’s £2,000 has enabled the service to purchase an infra-red camera.

The high-tech camera, which uses technology to sense heat and create an image, will help volunteers to find and rescue people who have got into difficulties off the Isle of Wight coastline.

The charity, which is run entirely on public donations and a dedicated team of volunteers, was nominated by colleagues at the Yorkshire’s agency at Ward House Mortgages and Life in Union Street, Ryde.

Agency proprietor Michael Ward said: “The volunteers at Ryde Inshore Rescue offer a round-the-clock service which is vital to public safety. No matter the weather or time of year, they are out there providing the Solent area with a life-saving service.

“The Charitable Foundation is funded by our members and I know they are as proud as we are to be able to support such a worthwhile cause.”

Yorkshire Building Society Charitable Foundation is funded through the Small Change Big Difference scheme where members donate the pennies from the interest on their accounts just once a year to help smaller charities around the UK.

Shaun Smith, chairman of Ryde Inshore Rescue, said: “A lot of people are surprised when they learn we’re funded entirely through public donations and manned by volunteers. We’re very grateful for this donation, which will enable us to buy a vital piece of equipment to help us to find and rescue people who’ve got into trouble at sea.

“We’re always looking to strengthen our team by recruiting new volunteers. Anyone who is interested in joining us can visit our website for more information and details on how to apply.”

For more information about Ryde Inshore Rescue, visit www.rydeinshorerescue.com/contact-us.