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Inshore lifeboat rescues inflatable kayak caught out by offshore winds

Lifeboats News Release

Swanage's D class inshore lifeboat (ILB) was launched after a call for help was received from an inflatable kayak unable to return to Swanage Bay.

Swanage inshore lifeboat launching from Swanage Lifeboat Station

RNLI

Swanage inshore lifeboat launching from Swanage Lifeboat Station
The kayak had rounded Ballard Point towards Old Harry, but was unable to return against the brisk breeze. The paddler had beached the kayak in a small cove along the cliffs but was unable to get to safety.

The ILB launched with three volunteer crew on board and made their way to the cliffs, where the kayaker was quickly located. They were taken on board, along with their craft, and returned to Swanage beach, where local coastguards were able to offer some words of advice.

The ILB returned to the station just after 6pm to be re-fuelled ready for the next service.

ILB Crew: (Helm) Fergus Holley, Tom Greasty, Nigel Bower
Shore Crew: (Winchman) Andy Redout, Phil Palmer, Gary Buglass, Paul Meacham

RNLI volunteer media contact

For more information please telephone Becky Mack, Swanage RNLI Volunteer Press Officer on 07812 558487 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.

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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.

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