RNLI lifeguards assist windsurfer in difficulty at Bantham
RNLI lifeguards at Bantham assisted a male windsurfer back to shore on Sunday 12 June.
The windsurfer had experienced kit failure whilst on the water, so waved for assistance. He was approximately 400m from shore.
RNLI Lifeguard Loic Doison had spotted the man in difficulty, and responded to his signal for help with fellow lifeguard Theo Stopard. They launched the inshore rescue boat mid-afternoon and the windsurfer was taken to Sedgewell Cove, where he had initially launched from. The windsurfer was unharmed from the incident.
Chris Rampling, RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor, said: ‘The casualty did the right thing by calling for help, and the lifeguards were quick to respond. If you are heading out on to the water, make sure to check the conditions and always carry a means of calling for help. It is essential to be prepared for the activity you’re doing, and respect the water. Check tide times for local beaches so that you don't get caught out.’
Notes to editors:
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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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