Filming leads to false alarm for RNLI Penarth lifeboat crews

Both of Penarth's lifeboats were launched this afternoon shortly after 2pm following reports of cries for help being heard just off Penarth pier. In addition information was received from the coastguard that a boat was towing a smaller vessel in the area. An investigation by HM Coastguards Penarth rescue team quickly confirmed that the cries were in fact part of filming activities being undertaken in the general area of the pier, with the boat being towed also part of the activity. This was a false alarm with good intent.

As our volunteer crews were returning to station rescue helicopter 187, based in St Athan radioed to enquiry whether we would take part in some winching exercises, which we gladly agreed to participate in. Bystanders at the esplanade were treated to an impromptu flying and winching display, showing the exercise of both helicopter and lifeboat crews.

For more information please contact Andy Berry, Penarth Lifeboat Press Officer on 07951 051128. Alternately contact Eleri Roberts, RNLI Public Relations Manager on 07771 941390 or email [email protected].

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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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