Highlights
- One owner from new - the Gosport & Fareham Inshore Rescue Service (GAFIRS)
- Just 47,369 miles from new
- Charity sale - all proceeds go to GAFIRS
- Used as a frontline asset for search and rescue operations for three decades
- Recently serviced with cam belt change in 2024
- Prepared to a high standard by the Autoglym team
- MOT until September 2026
The Appeal
While most Land Rover Defenders fulfil a purely recreational role, this example has been used exactly as its makers originally intended - as a frontline asset for search and rescue operations. Owned from new by the Gosport & Fareham Inshore Rescue Service (GAFIRS), this 110 has played a pivotal role in the day-to-day functioning of this independent charity-run lifeboat station - one of the UK's busiest.
The vendor tells us:
"Known by its call sign 'Gosport Rescue Mobile', it has been an iconic vehicle and loved by past and present members, as well as members of the public who have often seen it in action on rescues and at fundraising events."
A maintenance log from members is also included as part of the history file as well as the original service books and handbook. Meticulously maintained throughout its service life and recently detailed by Autoglym experts, this much-loved Land Rover comes beautifully presented in highly original, honest condition. The MOT runs until 26th September 2026 with a few advisories to note. It comes with a number of optional extras and has had minor modifications in line with its usage as a lifeboat service vehicle.
The vendor summarises:
"This is a unique opportunity to own a special vehicle that has had an incredible history saving lives in the Solent and surrounding areas. It has been used on countless search and rescue operations and can be genuinely described as an iconic lifesaving vehicle.
The vendor tells us:
"Known by its call sign 'Gosport Rescue Mobile', it has been an iconic vehicle and loved by past and present members, as well as members of the public who have often seen it in action on rescues and at fundraising events."
A maintenance log from members is also included as part of the history file as well as the original service books and handbook. Meticulously maintained throughout its service life and recently detailed by Autoglym experts, this much-loved Land Rover comes beautifully presented in highly original, honest condition. The MOT runs until 26th September 2026 with a few advisories to note. It comes with a number of optional extras and has had minor modifications in line with its usage as a lifeboat service vehicle.
The vendor summarises:
"This is a unique opportunity to own a special vehicle that has had an incredible history saving lives in the Solent and surrounding areas. It has been used on countless search and rescue operations and can be genuinely described as an iconic lifesaving vehicle.
Inspections are welcomed ahead of the sale and can be carried out in Gosport, Hants, upon request."
All proceeds from the sale of this Defender will go to GAFIRS. A worthy cause indeed, and yet another reason to consider this heroic Land Rover.
All proceeds from the sale of this Defender will go to GAFIRS. A worthy cause indeed, and yet another reason to consider this heroic Land Rover.
History and Paperwork
- First registered on 30 September 1998 to the Gosport & Fareham Inshore Rescue Service (GAFIRS)
- One owner from new; showing 0 former keepers on the V5C
- 47,369 warrnted miles
- MOT valid until 26th September 2026
- Service records available for 1999, 2000, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025
- Recent cam belt change and major service in 2024
- Maintenance log from GAFIRS members included in the history pack
- Original service books and handbook in wallet included
- Being sold directly by the charity, with all proceeds going to the service
The Condition
- Garaged when not in service
- Recently detailed by Autoglym experts to a high standard
- Land Rover expert has recently noted the vehicle is in good condition for its age
- Areas prone to corrosion on these models are reported to be in good condition compared to similar-aged examples
- Some surface rust and electrolytic reaction present as is typical for the model
- Some localised paint loss from the removal of vinyl stickers
- Remarkably straight bodywork overall with just a few minor dents
- The chassis is reported to be solid overall, passing MOT
- The rear crossmember is holed in one spot
- Signs of paint bubbling to the bulkhead in the usual areas but it does not appear significantly corroded
- Fitted with heavy-duty roof rack with ladder
- Galvanised treadplate on the bonnet and wing tops
- Tow bar fitted
- VHF radio installed
- No stereo fitted - retrofitted panel where previous blue light switches were located
The Mechanics
- 2.5-litre 300 TDi
- Five-speed manual transmission with four-wheel drive and low range
- Snorkel fitted for deep wading
- Winch attached to the heavy-duty galvanised front bumper (functionality untested)
- Cam belt changed in 2024
- Battery isolator switches fitted
- Some MOT advisories to note
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