CATHERINE Fookes, MP for Monmouthshire, has welcomed the Government’s decision to exempt search and rescue vehicles from Vehicle Excise Duty.

The change follows calls from volunteer rescue teams, including the Severn Area Rescue Association, who rely on specialist vehicles to carry out lifesaving work every day.

The change means that their emergency vehicles will be exempt from road tax in the same way as ambulances.

Catherine recently met with SARA, who requested the tax exemption. Working alongside colleagues, she successfully lobbied the Government to secure this change in policy.

Mark Carwardine, CEO of SARA, said: “We are delighted that the Government has recognised the vital work which the volunteer organisations do in providing search and rescue services, by deciding to exempt our vehicles from road tax in the same way as ambulances.

“For a large organisation like SARA, when enacted, this will save us several thousands of pounds a year- money which we have had to fundraise from the community.”

Catherine Fookes MP said: “Last year, I visited SARA and saw first-hand the incredible work they do and the men and women who volunteer their time to keep people safe and save lives.

“I know from my conservation with the team that this was one of their key asks, which I raised with Ministers. These vehicles are essential for saving lives, and this change will make a real difference.”

The Severn Area Rescue Association is a volunteer- led association who provide 24/7 inshore lifeboat and rescue services along the River Severn and the surrounding areas.

There are over 200 volunteers who are called out in and around the River Severn and they are called out over 100 times every year they have a number of stations which are located at Newport, Beachley, Sharpness, Tewkesbury, Upton, Wyre Forest and Cotswolds.