Cardigan RNLI lifeboat and RNLI lifeguards respond to windsurfer in difficulty

The windsurfer was spotted by lifeguards quite a way off the beach seemingly struggling to return to shore.

Lifeguard Ben Thomas paddled out to the windsurfer but due to the distance from the shore and uncertainty about their condition the lifeguard team called Milford Haven Coastguard to request assistance from Cardigan RNLI lifeboat, which was launched at 4.51pm.

The windsurfer has sustained damage to the sail and the casualty had managed to paddle board part-way back to the shore.

When the Atlantic class lifeboat arrived at the scene the casualty was  making his own way back to shore, escorted by the RNLI lifeguard.

The lifeboat waited until both the windsurfer and RNLI lifeguard were safely on shore and returned to the station.

Media contacts:

For further information, please contact Tracy Newman, Cadrigan RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer, on 07805 246975, or Chris Cousens, RNLI Press Officer, Wales and West, on 07748 265496 or 01745 585162 or by email on [email protected].

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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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.