First call-out for new Llandudno RNLI inshore lifeboat
Llandudno RNLI's brand-new inshore lifeboat Dr Barbara Saunderson, which was only delivered to the resort a few days ago, was launched on her maiden mission this afternoon (Sunday 10 April).
She was called out to go to a male kite-surfer reported to be in difficulties offshore.
The man had set off from the beach at Colwyn Bay shortly before 2pm and appeared to experience difficulties in the fresh conditions and ebbing spring tide.
These resulted in him being carried out of sight round the Rhos Point promontory and led to an emergency call to Holyhead Coastguard. As a result the lifeboat launched at 2.15pm from Llandudno's sailing club slipway, but whilst she was making full speed to the scene, Llandudno coastguards found the kite surfer safe and well on the promenade at Penrhyn Bay, to where he had made his way after managing to get ashore.
The lifeboat was therefore stood down to return to station for refuelling and to be made ready for further service.
Media contacts:
For more information please contact Alan Sharp, RNLI Llandudno Lifeboat Press Officer, 01492 543315.
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity 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 146,000 lives.
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