ONE of the UK's oldest search and rescue teams has been awarded a share of a £1 million fund, the Department for Transport announced.

Berkshire Lowland Rescue, founded in 1979, will receive money for vital equipment to aid its efforts in recovering missing people.

Rob Jackson from Berkshire Lowland Rescue said the funding will "help us immensely".

He said: "We will now be able to purchase game-changing equipment like thermal imaging cameras and a brand new vehicle - helping us to carry vital equipment and people to incidents and support our emergency services in searches for missing people.

"As a charity which relies solely on donations, this grant means that we as volunteers can support communities and make a difference to other people's lives."

Since launching in 2014, the Rescue Boat Grant Fund has provided £5.7 million to 104 charities around the UK.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: "Our rescue boat teams carry out vital work to keep our rivers, lakes and inshore areas safe.

"These inspirational charities and their dedicated volunteers save lives every day, and this additional funding will ensure that they have the craft, equipment and resources to provide these services year-round."

Some 50 charities across the UK will benefit from the latest round of funding.

Freshwater Independent Lifeboat on the Isle of Wight and Maryport Inshore Rescue in Cumbria will be given money to pay for new lifeboats.

Bolton Mountain Rescue and North Wales Mountain Rescue Association have also been given funding to boost their ability to find missing people in water.