Kayakers reported in difficulty at Old Harry Rocks.

The kayakers were reported to have lost their paddle and were unable to get back to shore. The D class inshore lifeboat launched into a foggy bay and made their way to Old Harry.

Nothing was found on the south/east side of the headland, so the ILB made its way through some rougher water on the ledges off Old Harry and soon located a small group of kayakers on the Studland side.

The kayakers, all well equipped and a little surprised at the lifeboat's arrival, confirmed that one of their number had capsized and exited their boat. However, the paddler had self-rescued and another member of the group had retrieved the floating paddle and the group were continuing their activity.

With everyone confirmed safe and well both lifeboats were released to return to station. A false alarm with good intent - the kayak group were well equipped and practiced, and the first informant did the right thing by calling '999' and asking for the coastguard when witnessing what appeared to be a dangerous situation.

ALB Crew: (Coxn) Gavin Steeden, Steve Williams, Phil Palmer, Neil Brooks, Alice Haw, Scott Turner
ILB Crew: (Helm) Darren Tomes, Ben Jarvis, Ben Bamber

Shore Crew: (Head Launcher) Neil Collings, (Winch) Jeremy Stein, Simon Foote, (Winch) Matthew Steeden, Becky Mack, Bryan Jones

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.

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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.