Why not become a watchkeeper?
Being a watchkeeper
Becoming a watchkeeper at Prawle Point is an opportunity to help and support our unmatched Search & Rescue agencies: HM Coastguard (including the rescue helicopter and the Kingsbridge Coastal Rescue Team) and the Salcombe Lifeboats (RLNI). We work closely with these agencies, assisting them as required. We also look out for walkers along the South West Coast Path. Our primary job, then, is to assure the safety of mariners and walkers (as well as the other local inhabitants, sheep and cattle).
The Lookout has a spectacular 240° view from Bolt Head in the west to (nearly) Start Point in the east. When things are quiet it’s a wonderful place to watch wild and birdlife and to watch weather systems come and go.
Social aspects include a monthly station meeting which informal meeting time, a short session on station business and usually a talk from a guest speaker.
Why not join us?
Do join us! If you would like to find our more about being a watchkeeper at Prawle Point or would like to arrange an observation watch (a chance to experience what is like to be a duty watchkeeper) please email prawlepoint.secretary@nci.org.uk or use our Contact Form. We will respond as quickly as possible. You can also call us on 01548 511259 during watch hours and the Duty watchkeeper can take your details.
Who are we?
Our watchkeepers come from all walks of life: some have sailing experience but many do not. Whatever your background if you are physically able to walk up the hill to us you are most welcome to join us. Everyone who wishes to become a qualified watchkeeper undergoes a course of training the pace and content of which will be customised for you taking into account levels of prior knowledge and time available.
You can hear some watchkeeper stories on our Watchkeeper Spotlight page
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How do I become a watchkeeper?
Training takes place over the winter months and entails two classroom sessions covering background and theory plus ten to twelve training watches where you will be paired with one of our training team. Watchkeepers also receive the necessary training to obtain a Short Range VHF Radio Certificate if they do not already have one.
What is the commitment?
Watches run from 0900 to 1300, 1300 to 1700 and, in the summer months 1700 to 2000. Watches close at sunset if that is earlier.
As a qualified watchkeeper at Prawle Point you are expected to sign up for an average of two watches per month plus an additional watch per month in the summer months. The ideal target, then, is 27 watches a year.
