Scotland goalkeeper joins campaign to save coastguard station

Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon has lent his support to the campaign to save Shetland’s coastguard station.

The Sunderland footballer, whose grandparents came from Unst, said he was “saddened” to hear the station in Lerwick’s Knab Road was under threat.

The government is consulting on proposals to reduce the number of maritime rescue co-ordination centres from 18 to eight.

Under the plans either Lerwick or Stornoway will close, with the survivor being forced to operate during daytime hours.

Critics have warned the proposals could cost lives, with campaigners securing thousands of signatures opposing the move.

Mr Gordon said: “I have family on Shetland and some very happy memories of visiting the coastguard station in Lerwick as a child, so naturally I’m saddened to hear of its possible closure.

“I know that the weather can be so unpredictable and hugely unforgiving around the islands so the role of the Shetland coastguard in protecting so many people from danger can not be overstated.

“I wholeheartedly support the people of Shetland in their bid to retain its services.”

Craig Gordon is not the first celebrity to come out against the closure plans. Wildlife presenter Simon King has already thrown his weight behind the campaign.