Takeover plan for Leconfield rescue service
RAF Leconfield's search-and-rescue service will be taken over by a private company from as early as 2013, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced.
The move will mean ageing Sea King helicopters will be replaced by a modern, faster fleet.
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CHANGING TIMES: Squadron Leader Mike Nash at RAF Leconfield.
Nationally, it is feared the controversial privatisation, with Soteria Consortium could put lives at risk as the numbers of helicopters would be slashed from 38 to fewer than 24 and round-the-clock provision will be cut.
But the MoD has insisted Leconfield will not be affected.
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A spokesperson said: "There will be a reduction in the number of helicopters but there will be a minimum of two at each base.
"Leconfield has two, so there will be no change there.
"Two bases will have 12-hour cover, but Leconfield will remain a 24 hour operation.
"And Leconfield will remain at Leconfield."
Officials at the base, near Beverley, have confirmed it is likely the number of military personnel will be reduced and civilian staff will make up the bulk of the team under the radical overhaul.
Squadron leader Stuart Reeks, from Leconfield, said he was not concerned.
He said: "The new fleet of Sikorsky S92 fleet as modern helicopters will be faster and more reliable.
"There are 21 staff here and it is likely there will be reduction in the number of military personnel and we will instead pay civilians.
"Nationally, there will be a reduction from around 200 military air crew to 66.
"It is not yet clear how many civilians will be employed.
"The contract is still being drawn up, so we really don't know too many details at the moment."
Comments
by Lee, Bev
Thursday, February 25 2010, 9:29AM
“MB as in Miserable B...”
by lecores, leconfield
Wednesday, February 17 2010, 7:47PM
“I'm quite happy to have them flying over my house - I always hope I never need to use their services.
It isn't disturbing - in fact its reassuring that they are so well practiced.
Having previously lived in a big city MB I can tell you there are worse noises and disturbances out there.
At least when a helicopter flies over our village we know straight away what it is.
Whenever I hear of a call out on the news I always wonder if Leco guys were called out.
One of the guys used to write a column in the Village newsletter,giving a round up of what rescues / call outs they had had that month. He has left now and nobody has taken over the column. Shame really as it always made an interesting read. I also remember when they put a big ned nose on one of the helicopters on Christmas Eve when they were out practicing.
The kids loved it
On a more serious note I also remember the help the MOD provided for villagers during the floods.
I hope that there aren't any cuts and the "big birds" continue to be based in our Village and the barracks continue to be used.”
by old jarv, up sh-t creak no paddel waiting for the chopper
Tuesday, February 16 2010, 2:46PM
“Can't you just see The Health& Safety Executive, Sorry thats just to dangerous 2MEN ON EACH WINCH. no no no wot flying that close to the cliff not allowed ,lowerd on to the deck of a moving ship with 20ft waves sorry your only trained to opperate at 15ft ......Air Sea Rescue deserve meddls as big as dustbin lids”
by Dave, Hessle
Tuesday, February 16 2010, 1:20PM
“MB I assume you moved into your house many years before they started flying helicopters from Leconfield?”
by MB, Near that airfield
Tuesday, February 16 2010, 1:07PM
“Lets hoep they cut down the time they practise flying the helicopter right over our house & village
If you are ever needing a helicopter in a village that needs it to come in to pick you up by skimming the rooftops, you will be glad to hear they are well & truely trained on it”
by Biggles, East Riding Yorkshire
Tuesday, February 16 2010, 8:21AM
“Rumours are the new helicopters have a far greater range, Leconfield 202 Sqn SAR may be for the chop? Cost cutting or efficeny measures?”
by Kate, Bev
Tuesday, February 16 2010, 7:52AM
“No way should this be allowed to happen. The RAF has a proud tradition of ASR and it provdes THE best service anywhere.
Why are we allowing this gradual erosion of services?
Disgusted.”
by Dave, Living in Reality
Tuesday, February 16 2010, 7:46AM
“The very thin end of a very thick wedge! Another sad day!!!!”