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Stranded kayaker rescued by Mudeford RNLI

Lifeboats News Release

On Tuesday 27 August at 5.28pm the Mudeford RNLI volunteer crew were tasked to a kayaker in difficulty approximately 600m off Avon Beach.

An RNLI orange rib with four crew speeds through the water.

Cheers Smile Photography

The Mudeford Servant lifeboat and crew at the entrance to Christchurch Harbour

Unable to reach the casualty the alarm had been raised by RNLI lifeguards nearby, who contacted HM Coastguard.

The crew launched at 5.39pm and located the casualty at 5.43pm towards the Long Groyne at Hengistbury Head. The casualty having already lost his paddle was found clinging to his kayak after he was accidentally capsized by the wash of a passing vessel. The passing vessel had also turned around to offer the casualty assistance.

The crew recovered the casualty safely on board the Mudeford Servant Atlantic 85 lifeboat. Having established the casualty did not require medical attention the lifeboat headed to Mudeford Quay where he was put ashore. The lifeboat returned to station at 6pm.

Mudeford RNLI volunteer Helm, Justin O’Connell said, ‘This shout was a great example of how the lifeguards and lifeboat crew work together to keep people safe on the water. Although the lifeguards had eyes on the casualty he was drifting too far out for them to get to. Their prompt action meant we could reach him in a few minutes and bring him to safety. We’re delighted he was recovered safe and well.’

For more information on how to stay safe on the water visit; www.rnli.org/safety

The Mudeford Servant Atlantic 85 lifeboat has launched 58 times this year so far and launched 85 times in 2023.

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.