CASTLE Point boatmen were given a taste of coping in an emergency situation at a life raft training session.

All boats carrying passengers are required by law to carry a life raft, and the day was a chance for their crews to practice for an emergency situation.

The session, which was held at Runnymede pool, Thundersley, saw sailors practice inflating rafts, loading passengers and even righting the raft if it tipped over.

John Anderson, a licensed boatman, said: “It was great to have the opportunity to practice in a safe place. Hopefully I’ll never have to use the life raft in an emergency situation, but it’s vital to keep your skills up to date in our industry.”

The session was arranged by Castle Point Council, who licence passenger boats in the borough.

Cliff Brunt, chairman of licensing, said: “I’m delighted we were able to help and support our licensed boatmen in this really practical way.

“Castle Point is a great place to enjoy a trip on the water, but it’s most important all our pleasure boats are safe for use.

“If you are booking fishing or sightseeing trips in the Thames estuary, always check before you book that the vessel is properly licensed with us.”