Multiple break-ins at Constantine and Boobys beach RNLI lifeguard units

The lifeguard units at Boobys and Constantine beaches, near Padstow, has been broken into on multiple occasions recently, some of which have involved the theft of donations to the RNLI. The first break-in occurred at Constantine lifeguard unit during the night on Saturday 10 August but those involved in this incident have already been identified and dealt with by the police.

The following two incidents happened over the past weekend and those responsible have not yet been identified. Overnight on Saturday (17 August), there was a break-in at the Constantine unit and some of the money from the charity box was stolen. Then on Sunday night, there was a break-in at the Boobys beach lifeguard unit and the entire charity box was stolen.

These donations help to fund our lifesaving service and equipment including the RNLI’s lifeguard units, which are vital for the lifeguards to be able to carry out their day-to-day duties. It is where they often treat first aids, assist lost children, and store equipment and uniform.

Leon Bennett, Lifeguard Supervisor in North Cornwall said:

‘It is extremely disappointing when break-ins like this happen, the theft of the donations has been a real blow to the lifeguards and the local fundraisers who dedicate their time to raising money for our lifesaving charity.

‘Fortunately the recent break-ins have not affected the lifeguards’ ability to do their jobs and they continue to work hard patrolling the North Cornwall beaches every day from 10am-6pm.’

If you have any information regarding the break-ins on the weekend, please inform the police by calling 101 and using the crime reference number CR/074535/19.

Notes to editors

• Please see attached photo of the lifeguard unit after the recent break-in.
• RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor Leon Bennett is available for interview.

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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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