Plans to replace a watchtower which plays a vital role in saving lives have been handed a cash boost.
Coastwatch Redcar is based in the lookout tower above the Zetland Lifeboat Museum in Redcar.
Launched in 1996, the organisation trains volunteers to assist HM Coastguard and search and rescue services during sea emergencies.
The tower is in a state of disrepair but funds are being raised to replace it with a new facility.
EDF Energy Renewables, which owns and operates the Teesside offshore wind farm off the coast of Redcar, is donating £10,000 from its local community benefit fund.
Trevor Smith, Coastwatch Redcar chairman, said: “The watchtower is no longer fit for purpose and needs replacing urgently.
“We are very grateful for the contribution from EDF Energy Renewables. Without this we would not have been able to go ahead with the project.
“The funding will benefit many people including leisurecraft, fishermen, swimmers and surfers, as well as those using the beach and promenade area. “It will allow our volunteers to help HM Coastguard by monitoring the movement of vessels and recording any incidents at sea and along the seafront.”
It is hoped that the new watchtower will be in operation by the end of the summer.
James Wilson, operations engineer for the wind farm said: “The volunteers work around the clock to plot coastal movements and inform HM Coastguard and ourselves if there is any unusual coastal activity in the vicinity of the wind farm.
“We are delighted to support a scheme that provides an important service to the local community and has a special relationship with all those associated with the coast including the Teesside offshore wind farm.”
The Teesside offshore wind farm comprises of 27 turbines which supply the average annual electricity needs for approximately 40,000 homes.
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