New Quay RNLI launch both lifeboats to person in the water

Both the all-weather and the inshore lifeboat launched on service into Storm Ellen, in a force 5-7 south westerly wind and moderate to rough sea conditions.

Dan Potter, New Quay RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat coxswain said, “When we arrived on scene, we found the casualty to the south of Cwmsilio beach, clinging to a rock on a ledge just above the water."

Huw Williams, New Quay RNLI’s inshore lifeboat helm added, “Having got close enough to establish that the casualty was cold and wet but unhurt, we considered various means of reaching her but, due to the large breaking waves, decided that the best means of extraction would be by helicopter.”

With New Quay Coastguard Rescue Team also in attendance, both lifeboats then stood by and monitored the casualty until Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 187 arrived from St Athan and winched the casualty to safety.

Both lifeboats were then tasked to search for a dog which had also entered the water. Dan Potter added, “We carried out a shoreline search between Cwmtydu and New Quay but, whilst it was a good outcome for the person, unfortunately we were unable to find the dog.”

Having concluded their searches, both lifeboats returned to station by 1:30pm.

Roger Couch, New Quay RNLI’s Lifeboat Operations Manager added, “While walking on the coast be wary of cliff edges and always check the weather and tide times. If you are walking your dog, keep your dog on a lead, especially if you are close to the cliff edges.

“If you do find yourself in the water unexpectedly, fight your instincts and float until the effects of cold water shock pass. If you see someone in trouble call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

Notes to editors

For more information contact Kate Williams, New Quay Lifeboat Press Officer at [email protected] or 07786 550054.

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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