Fleetwood RNLI in multiple call-outs

Just after 1pm yesterday HM Coastguard requested the launch of Fleetwood’s all-weather and inshore lifeboats to a kayaker in difficulties. Whilst en route to the kayak, the volunteers were informed that the casualty was safe and had reached the beach.

Before the lifeboats had a chance to return to the lifeboat station, HM Coastguard requested Fleetwood RNLI to assist an inflatable rib, which was in difficulties, at Rossall Point. The two casualties were taken on-board the all-weather Shannon class lifeboat and the inflatable was towed back to port.

Whilst on the way back to port, the third call from HM Coastguard requested the lifeboats search for a dog that had been swept out by the tide. Both lifeboats searched the sea near Marine beach and had given up hope of finding her when the exhausted dog was spotted out near Wyre Light. It was quickly taken on board the all-weather lifeboat and returned to its grateful owner.

Tony Cowell, Coxswain for Fleetwood RNLI said:

‘It’s been a busy day. Having collected two casualties out at Rossall, we then had to find the proverbial needle in a haystack! We were beginning to fear the worse for the poor dog, but luckily, Trainee Coxswain and Mechanic, Daryl, spotted it in the channel. It was exhausted, but quickly responded to a dry towel and a bit of fuss.

‘Big tides, inflatables and swimming dogs aren’t a good mix. But it was a good learning curve for some of our volunteer trainees, who were aboard the Shannon today. We’re just relieved it all ended well.’

Notes to editors

· Fleetwood lifeboat station has been operating since 1859. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to: http://fleetwoodlifeboat.org.uk/

· Coxswain Tony Cowell is available for interview

· Photos of Fleetwood’s Shannon lifeboat can be viewed at: http://fleetwoodlifeboat.org.uk/

RNLI media contacts

For more information please contact Ken Harcombe, Fleetwood RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer, on 07970 197195 / [email protected] or Eleri Roberts, RNLI Regional Media Officer West, on 07771 941390/ [email protected]

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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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