Inshore lifeboat launched to object in Durlston Bay

The object, on the shoreline, could not be clearly identified but was potentially a casualty, so the coastguard tasked Swanage D class inshore lifeboat (ILB) to investigate. The volunteers at Swanage coastguard were also alerted and made their way to Durlston Bay.

The ILB was quickly over Peveril ledges and into the calmer waters of Durlston Bay. The object was easily located and identified as a mannequin designed to be used as a search target. The mannequin was taken onto the ILB and returned to the boathouse. The ILB was washed down and the volunteer crew were able to continue their day.

ILB Crew: (Helm) Matthew Steeden, Phil Palmer, Sam Aggas, Fergus Holley
Shore Crew: (Winchman) Becky Mack, Andy Redout, Jamie Trumper, Neil Collings

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

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