Simon Drayton was called into action on Tuesday when an offer of assistance from the International Rescue Corps, of which he is a member, was accepted by Chinese officials.

But Mr Drayton, who is sector manager for Humber Coastguard, was unable to be part of the team that departed for Hong Kong late Tuesday evening, though he played a vital role in assisting the rescue effort.

He said: “I was training in Christchurch, Bournemouth, when the call came through. I was asked to be part of the team, however my passport and all my things were up in Scarborough. There was no way I could go back to get them and return to Heathrow Airport in time.

“As I was fairly close to the airport I made my way there and organised the flights and the travel arrangements for the team of 10 who were mobilised from all over the country. The entire team were in the departure lounge by around 9pm, just eight hours after receiving the original call. Just after 10pm they departed for Honk Kong.

“I am disappointed not to be going but it would have delayed the team if they had to wait for me. It has given another member of the team the opportunity to go out there, and at the end of the day as long as there are people out there saving lives it doesn’t matter whether it is me or not.”

For more information about the International Rescue Corps visit www.intrescue.org.uk