I see this is turning into the usual civvy v military bitch-off. UK SAR is being civilianised whether we like it or not, will it be any better or worse? Impossible to answer as it will be un-quantifiable; there is no current mechanism to judge overall success in SAR nor will there be in the near future. Will there be less training hours? Yes. Do the military currently over-train? Arguably, yes (I know Crab won't agree but we are, at times, guilty of 'tick chasing '). Will the new cabs be faster/more reliable? Yes. Will there be less bases? Yes. Will the new crews be any less capable? Probably not. All of which means, in all probability, the service will on aggregate be as effective. Some areas will be slightly better, some slightly worse. For those of you unable to accept the inevitable, have a bit of dignity and try supporting those who will do their best to make things work despite limitations that have been imposed outwith their control. Oh, and a safe and successful 2015 to you all.