First launch on service for Whitby RNLI Lifeboat, Lois Ivan

At around 3pm this afternoon (Saturday 16 September) a call came in that a person and their dog were trapped by the incoming tide at Robin Hood’s Bay, south of Whitby.

Initially Whitby RNLI’s inshore lifeboat was launched to search the coastline, but due to the rough sea conditions and strong winds it was decided that the all weather lifeboat should also launch as a precaution.

This meant that the casualties could be transferred to the Shannon class lifeboat if needed.

The inshore lifeboat crew began searching the coastline alongside the local coastguard crews from Whitby and Ravenscar, who made a search of the shoreline on foot.

During the search a report was made to the Coastguard that the walker had managed to make their own way to safet, both lifeboats were stood down and returned to Whitby Lifeboat station.

Station mechanic Richard Dowson said: ‘Not only was this our first shout on our new lifeboat Lois Ivan, but it was also the first shout for some of our newest crew members on station. Well done to the crew on the inshore lifeboat who faced challenging conditions for the search - they did a brilliant job.'

Richard also shared some top tips for visiting the coast:

Always check the tide times

Plan your exit route off the beach

Always carry a means of calling for help

If you see someone in trouble dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard

For more information contact Lifeboat Press Officer Ceri Oakes on 07814459428 or at [email protected]

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, Twitter 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.