Staithes and Runswick RNLI early morning launch to assist anglers

The neap tide coupled with atmospheric and environmental conditions meant the water level did not drop below three metres and they were not able access a safe route back.

Onshore winds of up to 30 knots and two to three meter waves meant it was decided it was safer to request the Coastguard rescue helicopter rather than use the lifeboat to extract the casualties.

The Coastguard helicopter arrived at around 4am and began to lift them to a landing site near Boulby whilst Staithes’ volunteer crew stood off and observed until their rescue from the shore was complete. The lifeboat, the Atlantic 85 Sheila & Dennis Tongue III, was then washed down and made ready for service.

Luke Hutchinson volunteer Helm said: ‘RNLI volunteers are ready to take the call to save lives at sea 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and are trained how to assess and respond to challenging sea conditions.

‘If you are visiting the coast this winter please check weather conditions, and consult tide tables. It is important you ensure you have a means of contacting help if needed, and someone is aware of where you have gone and what time you are to be expected back.’

If you are planning a day or night time fishing expedition then safety advice is available here: https://rnli.org/safety/choose-your-activity/angling#

More water safety advice for whatever coastal or waterside activity you are interested in can be found here; https://rnli.org/safety

Notes to Editor

Staithes and Runswick RNLI lifeboat has been in operation since 1978 with Atlantic B-Class inshore lifeboats (ILB’s). The present ILB at the station B-897 Sheila and Dennis Tongue III has been on station since 2016.

RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact:

James Stoker, RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer at: [email protected] or Clare Hopps, Regional Media Officer on 07824 518641 or, [email protected] or contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.