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Sligo Bay RNLI launch to assist lone surfer ahead of Storm Ellen

Lifeboats News Release

Sligo Bay RNLI was requested to assist a lone surfer ahead of Storm Ellen at 8.33pm yesterday evening (19 August).

RNLI/Sligo Bay

Sligo Bay RNLI

In freshening 14 knots of south easterly winds, four volunteer crew launched the inshore lifeboat and headed to Strandhill.

Following multiple calls to the Irish Coast Guard from concerned members of the public, a lone surfer appeared to be heading out to sea in the fading light.

Assisted by the Irish Coast Guard Helicopter Rescue 118 from Sligo, the lifeboat crew located the surfer who was able to make their own way ashore. The lifeboat remained on the scene until they were safely ashore.

Speaking following the call out, Aisling Gillen, Sligo Bay RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer said: 'Thankfully this was a happy ending. We would remind everyone of the importance of paying heed to safety warnings during periods of stormy weather and exercise extreme caution. Stay back, stay high and stay dry.'

Ends

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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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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.

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