Mudeford RNLI rescues swimmer trapped against rocks

The volunteer crew were already out on a training exercise when they were tasked by HM Coastguard at 6.14pm. The Atlantic 85 lifeboat Henrietta H was quickly diverted and arrived on scene just four minutes later.

Due to the swell conditions, the casualty had been pushed into a corner between the sea defences and the rock groyne and was pinned in position with waves breaking over her. Unable to extract herself either by climbing the slippery rocks or swimming back into the swell the situation was becoming critical.

Two members of the lifeboat crew entered the water to assist the casualty away from the rocks. Once through the surf, a throw rope was then deployed and the casualty was brought onboard the lifeboat.

The casualty was very cold and was brought back to Mudeford RNLI Lifeboat Station where she was warmed up and assessed by the crew. After confirming that no further medical assistance was required, she was safely taken home. As a precaution, she was also advised on the symptoms of secondary drowning and what to look out for in the hours following the incident.

Steve Doe, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Mudeford RNLI, said, 'This was a very serious incident and we are pleased the rescue had a positive outcome. Conditions around groynes and rocks can become extremely hazardous very quickly, particularly when there is any swell running. The casualty found herself in a situation where she simply couldn’t get clear safely.

'I’d like to thank the members of the public who raised the alarm so quickly. Their actions undoubtedly helped us respond rapidly and played a crucial part in what could have been a very different outcome. Quite simply, they helped save a life.'

The RNLI would remind anyone entering the water to be aware of local conditions, avoid swimming near structures such as groynes and rocks, and always have a means of calling for help. In an emergency, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

For more information visit: rnli.org/water-safety

The Mudeford RNLI Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Henrietta H, has launched 74 times this year so far and launched 77 times in 2025.

RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact:

Robert King, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for Mudeford RNLI, 07810 637471, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]

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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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