Andy King Celebrates 20 Years with Suffolk Search and Rescue

Andy King is celebrating twenty years with a rescue charity. He’s been with Suffolk Lowland Search and Rescue (SULSAR). Andy joined back in February 2005, and became chairman six years later.

SULSAR helps find missing people, looking for kids and vulnerable adults. They assist the emergency services in Suffolk. Elaine Glendinning gave Andy a decanter to mark his twenty years of service.

SULSAR’s HQ is unique; Andy knows of no other team with its own building. The HQ is in Woolpit, near the A14, and sits between Bury St Edmunds and Stowmarket.

Andy feels quite special and proud of their team’s achievements. When he started, they only had a van. Now, they have bikes, kayaks, a boat, drones and dogs also help.

He thanks his team, thinking they are the best, and they help because no one else can. He also thanked Paul Morris and Paul Westley, whom gave him immense help and support.

Andy won The Queen’s Award. SULSAR runs on a small budget, spending less than £20,000 each year. Call numbers have greatly increased lately, going from 15 originally to around 70.

He loves being on the ground and enjoys searching for people. Finding someone gives the team great joy, and helping someone get a second chance is amazing.

Andy will soon have a new role. In April, Elaine Glendinning will become chairman, and Andy will take on a senior operational role.