Both Exmouth RNLI lifeboats launched to persons calling for help
Exmouth RNLI volunteers were tasked this evening following a report of persons heard calling for help on the eastern side of Straight Point Range.
At 5.59pm today Wednesday 8 September 2021, H.M. Coastguard tasked both Exmouth RNLI Inshore Lifeboat D-805 George Bearman II and all weather lifeboat 13-03 R & J Welburn following a 999 call reporting persons calling for help in the vicinity of Straight Point Range between Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton.
The inshore lifeboat was already afloat on exercise and immediately made its way to the vicinity, arriving there very quickly at 6.10pm. Exmouth H.M. Coastguard Rescue team was also placed on standby at the scene.
The charity’s all weather lifeboat launched at 6.22pm commanded by Coxswain Roy Stott and volunteer crew Paul Balbi, Guy Munnings, Ed Steele, James Edge and James Searle and joined the search.
Other RNLI volunteers assisting in the assignment were Neil Cannon, John Dinsdale, Roger Moore, Mark Cockman, David Preece, Tim Barnes, Scott Ranft, Mark Sansom and Robert Thompson.
Both lifeboats engaged in a co-ordinated search of the area and at 6.56pm a further report was received of two persons reportedly cut off by the tide on the western side of Straight Point. The crew of the inshore lifeboat made their way to that location overseen by their colleagues in the all weather lifeboat and made contact with the individuals. It was established that they did not require assistance.
At 7.15pm the lifesavers were stood down by H.M. Coastguard.
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.
Learn more about the RNLI
For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, X, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.
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.