Criccieth RNLI Lifeboats partake in extensive multi-agency search

The Station's crew promptly launched both Lifeboats alongside mobilised UK Coastguard Search and Rescue Teams from both Criccieth and Harlech and the UK Coastguard Search and Rescue Helicopter from Caernarfon. All units were tasked to search for a man last-seen walking along the estuary's extensive sandbanks; the man had reportedly been taking photos and had been advised by staff from Portmeirion village to seek refugee from the flooding tide on Ynys Gifftan Island in the middle of the estuary and await rescue.

Having lost site of the man as he walked towards the small island, staff raised the alarm by contacting UK Coastguard.

The Station's Atlantic 85-class Lifeboat, Doris Joan, commenced a shoreline search along the headland near Portmeirion and across the confluence of the Dwyryd and Glaslyn rivers due to shallow waters. The Station's inshore rescue boat, Margaret a Nantw, made-way towards the island, searching the surrounding water as it approached. Two crew members were placed on the island and committed a thorough search of the island's shoreline and abandoned buildings.

Following a search lasting some two-hours, reports were received that the walker had in fact crossed the estuary sometime earlier near Talsarnau and was unaware a 999 call had been made. Following confirmation that he was safe and well, all units were stood-down. The call was recorded as a false alarm with good intent.

ENDS
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