Anstruther RNLI rescue two paddleboarders drifting perilously out to sea
Anstruther RNLI launched yesterday (25 June) to the aid of two paddleboarders drifting out to sea off the coast of Kingsbarns.
An urgent call was made to the UK Coastguard shortly before 2.30pm, with the paddleboarders drifting three-quarters of a mile north of Kingsbarns Beach and struggling to make it back ashore.
Arriving first, the D-class inshore lifeboat heard the cries for help and spotted the pair clinging to the one paddleboard. They were helped onboard the lifeboat and returned safely to Kingsbarns Beach.
Aboard the lifeboat was volunteer crew member Thomas Bett, and he praised the swift actions of the caller in raising the alarm.
Thomas said: ‘Clear information made it very straightforward for us to locate the two paddleboarders in the nick of time. With wind blowing the two further away from the shore, it was absolutely the correct thing to do in calling for help. We urge anyone who spots someone in difficulty at the coast to dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.’
If you are heading out on a paddleboard, we urge you to wear a floatation device and beware of offshore winds. For information on how to safely enjoy your paddleboard this summer, please visit: https://rnli.org/safety/choose-your-activity/stand-up-paddle-boarding
ENDS
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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 142,700 lives.
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