MEMBERS and supporters of West Mercia Search And Rescue (WMSAR) were out this weekend at Asda in Worcester, collecting support from the public.

The organisation is a charity which provides highly-trained, well-equipped specialists to assist the emergency services in the Search for missing people, and rescuing people from floods, rivers and other waterways.

It receives no public money, and all of its equipment, training and running cots is paid for by voluntary donations.

The collection on Saturday and Sunday was carried out by the Independent Fundraisers of Worcester, long-time supporters of WMSAR.

Members of WMSAR were on hand to talk to the public about their work, and one of their rescue boats was also on show alongside material about the group and some of the rescues it has carried out.

Neil Smith of the Independent Fundraisers of Worcester said: "They get no money from the emergency services, or from local or national government, so they are totally dependent on the public."

He said that a regular fundraiser for WMSAR is an annual golf day at Ombersley.

"This year it's on June 9 and we'd like to get as many teams signed up for it as possible," said Mr Smith.

To find out more, visit ifworcester.blogspot.co.uk.