Kayakers Rescued By Holyhead RNLI
Holyhead’s inshore lifeboat was called out this afternoon (Thursday July 25) when two kayakers got into difficulties near the fuelling jetty off Holyhead bay.
The pair were spending the hottest day of the year in their sit-on kayaks, but got into trouble when offshore winds began blowing them away from the safety of the shore.
They managed to grab a ladder attached to the jetty, and called for help.
Holyhead volunteers’ pagers sounded just after 3.15pm, and the three-person crew on the D-class lifeboat Mary and Archie Hooper were quickly heading to the scene.
On reaching the duo, the RNLI crew assisted them onto the lifeboat, secured both kayaks, and headed back to the Bolsach part of Holyhead’s Newry Beach.
The ILB then returned back to station at 4pm, where she was washed down and prepared for any further service.
ILB helm Stephanie Fleming said:
‘The two men were both wearing buoyancy aids, and had mobile phones with them. They called for help as soon as they realised they were in trouble, which was the right thing to do. They were in good health, and were relieved to see us arriving.’
She added:
‘It’s shows how, even on a nice day, the offshore winds can cause problems, and it’s important to take that into account when undertaking any activities on the water.’
Holyhead's launch operations manager David Owens said:
'The D-class lifeboats and the people that crew them are vital assets to the RNLI, and are so important when performing swift rescues such as the one carried out today.'
For further information, please contact Holyhead Lifeboat Press Officer Vicki Owens, on 07531 681409 or email [email protected]
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.
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