Transport minister John Haynes has announced an extra £5 million will be provided to water safety charities over the next five years to make sure that they have the necessary equipment to continue their work.

However, the money is for charities that focus on rescuing stricken boats on the UK’s rivers, lakes, canals and other inland bodies of water.

Mr Hayes said that the money would enable volunteers to improve safety and provide emergency rescues in inland waters, as well as helping with rescues in cases of severe flooding and other extreme weather events. He also praised the “tireless efforts” of such organisations’ volunteers.

Chief secretary to the Treasury Danny Alexander echoed these sentiments, saying: “Our volunteers are the backbone of our society.” He went on to explain that UK charities would be able to bid for the funding, which will be made available at a rate of £1 million per year.