Appledore RNLI volunteers launch to reports of surfer in difficulty

The Glanely launched at 12.15pm with four volunteer crew onboard and proceeded to Saunton as quickly as possible. Volunteer helm and station mechanic Owen Atkinson skillfully navigated the lifeboat and his crew across Bideford bar in between large sets of surf with waves 2-3m high.

On scene, the lifeboat liaised with Coastguards to begin searching for the casualty. There was large surf of around 3-4 metres with waves breaking at a distance offshore.

While the crew were afloat, Coastguard volunteers spotted a surfer walking back towards the car park. After speaking with her it was confirmed that she had been in difficulty in a rip current but had managed to get out of the water by climbing up the rocks.

The lifeboat was therefore stood down and crew returned to station.

Notes to editors

· A short video of the shout is available here:

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