Penarth and Barry Dock RNLI lifeboats in major search

Both of Penarth's RNLI lifeboats were launched shortly after 3.15pm after reports of a possible missing person, and the discovery of some abandoned clothes, in close proximity to the pier.

A large scale multi-agency search was undertaken, with Penarth's two lifeboats joined by Barry Dock all-weather lifeboat, the National Police Air Service helicopter, HM Coastguard Search and Rescue helicopter 187, members of Penarth and Barry Coastguard Rescue Teams and the police all involved.

The search was coordinated by Milford Haven Coastguard and a search pattern established for the lifeboat crews to follow.

Following information received all rescue services were stood down shortly after 5.10pm and the lifeboats returned to station.

Jason Dunlop, Penarth RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, said: 'The incident shows how quickly and effectively resources can be targeted and how closely the RNLI volunteers work with all the other agencies concerned.'

The lifeboats were refuelled and made ready for service calls, with many crew members starting their weekend a little later than planned.

Notes to editors:

For more information please contact Andy Berry, Penarth RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer, on 07951051128 or Chris Cousens, RNLI Press Officer, Wales and West, on 07748 265496 or 01745 585162 or by email on [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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