Porthdinllaen RNLI Lifeboat assists in the search for missing kayaker

Porthdinllaen`s all-weather lifeboat was tasked by UK Coastguard to reports of of a missing kayaker between Porthdinllaen and Nant Gwrtheyrn. Two kayakers had set off from Porthdinllaen earlier in the day with the intention of paddling to Trefor. Unfortunately, a strong southerly wind meant they became separated, with one kayaker losing sight of his partner at Pistyll. The Kayaker managed to get ashore near Pistyll and alerted the Coastguard of his concerns for his friend. The lifeboat launched at 3:20 pm with its complement of volunteer crew, and made headway towards the area that the casualty was last sighted.

The lifeboat conducted a shoreline search of the area leading up to Nant Gwrtheyrn where the casualty was sighted safely ashore at Porth y Nant. The lifeboat stayed on scene until the arrival of the local Coastguard team, who checked the casualty over. The lifeboat was refuelled and ready for service by 5:30 pm

Robert Jones, Second Coxswain of Porthdinllaen Lifeboat said: ‘The Kayakers had informed the Coastguard at Holyhead of their intentions, but with deteriorating weather and sea state had become separated. Fortunately had the means for calling for assistance. We always advise that anyone who intends to go to sea informs either a family member, friend or the Coastguard of your intended journey and when you intend to come ashore. This provides us with valuable information should you need assistance.'

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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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