Mudeford RNLI assist struggling kite surfer

This afternoon RNLI Mudeford was tasked by the National Maritime Operations Centre (NMOC) to assist a struggling kite surfer.

The kite surfer was in the water, shouting and waving towards the shore for assistance. There were multiple 999 calls to the emergency services.

The National Coastwatch Institution at Hengistbury Head (HHNCI) ‘spotted’ the kite surfer and called in his location. This meant that when the Mudeford RNLI lifeboat Mudeford Servant launched, the helm could head straight to the kite surfer, half a mile off Highcliffe Castle. Once the Mudeford crew arrived at the scene, they found the kite surfer’s kite but no kite surfer.

The NMOC received a call from a man on the shore saying he was the kite surfer and was safely ashore. The Mudeford lifeboat then proceeded with a shoreline search towards Steamer Point. Once the kite surfer was identified the Mudeford volunteer crew handed him his equipment and stood down.

Where possible have a buddy when you go kite surfing and always let someone know when you go and when you will be back. The kite surfer followed the best actions by signaling toward the shore for help and notifying NMOC once he was safe.

If you find yourself or anyone else in trouble in the water, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

Media Contacts

Claire Hellier, volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer Mudeford Lifeboat Station (07795) 496660 [email protected]

Paul Dunt, RNLI Regional Media Officer, South East and London (07785) 296252 [email protected]

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