Saturday night call out for Withernsea RNLI

Withernsea's lifeboat Henley Eight was requested to launch by the UK Coastguard at 9.30pm following reports from members of the public that 15 people were in the water, 50 metres east of local landmark Pier Towers. In less than five minutes, the lifeboat was launched with a volunteer crew of four and headed towards central Withernsea.

On arrival, all 15 people had made their way out of the water and were in no danger. The lifeboat crew landed the lifeboat on the beach and after talking with the group, it was established they had entered the water for a late night paddle as they were visiting the area. Safety advice was given, especially as it was getting dark and the tide was heading out to sea.

Once it was confirmed everybody was safe and well, both Withernsea lifeboat and the local Coastguards were stood down and returned home.

Deputy Launch Authority Rob Dawson said: 'The member of the public who dialled 999 did exactly the right thing. We urge anybody who spots something potentially dangerous to get in touch, its better to be safe than sorry.'

Helmsman Matthew Woodhouse added: 'At the time, the group of people thought they were having harmless fun after a day out at a seaside town. Things could have changed dramatically for the worse given the fading light and an ebbing tide. This could very easily have turned into a mass rescue operation so we're happy everyone is safe and well."

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.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, X, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

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.