Newbiggin RNLI rescues drifting paddle boarders

Humber Coastguard requested an immediate launch of the lifeboat as the two boards were pushed further out to sea during Friday afternoon.

Newbiggin's Atlantic 85 B class lifeboat 'Richard Wake Burdon' was launched from the beach and within minutes was alongside the casualty. The pair were pulled out of the water and brought onto the safety of the lifeboat along with their boards.

On returning to the shore they were met by the Newbiggin Coastguard Rescue Team who provided safety advice on calling for help and the requisite safety equipment for such activities.

If you are heading out on a paddle board, we urge you to wear a floatation device and beware of offshore winds. For information on how to safely enjoy your paddle board this summer, please visit: https://rnli.org/safety/choose-your-activity/stand-up-paddle-boarding

RNLI Newbiggin Volunteer Press Officer, Richard Martin said 'During this hot weather paddle boarding is becoming increasingly popular, but there are some simple things to remember to keep yourself safe.

• You should wear a personal floatation device - This can be a buoyancy aid or a lifejacket. Choose one that still allows you plenty of movement so you can paddle freely. Not only will it keep you afloat, but it will also help give you time to recover should you fall in – and chances are you will!
• Avoid offshore winds - They will quickly blow your paddle board far out to sea, which can make it extremely tiring and difficult to paddle back to shore.
• Check the weather forecast and tide times before you set out. If the water is too choppy, you might find it difficult, especially if you are a beginner. And be aware, the conditions can change quickly.
• Bringing your phone to take some photos? Make sure you keep it in a waterproof pouch. That way it won't get wet, and you can use it to call for help in an emergency too.

For further advice on staying safe whilst paddle boarding, visit the RNLI website: https://rnli.org/safety/choose-your-activity/stand-up-paddle-boarding’

RNLI media contacts
For more information please telephone Richard Martin, RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer Newbiggin on 07980 010544 or [email protected] or contact RNLI Public Relations on 01202 336789

If you would like to find out more about Newbiggin lifeboat station, its volunteers and its heritage then take a look at the local website.

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.