Port Isaac RNLI Responds to Two Shouts in one evening
On the evening of Sunday, 28th April, the volunteers of the Port Isaac RNLI lifeboat crew were tasked by Falmouth Coastguard to two separate shouts over the space of just two hours.
The first tasking was at 8.43pm to assist two people and a dog who appeared to be in difficulty halfway up a 200-foot cliff in an abandoned quarry at the northeast end of Trebarwith. Due to the challenging conditions, including a 2-metre rise and fall of waves at the base of the cliff, verbal communication with the casualties was not possible. The crew ensured the safety of the individuals while attempting to gather more information from the first informant, a fisherman. He reported seeing three people cut off by the tide, who had subsequently climbed the cliff with their dog to avoid danger.
The RNLI crew maintained visual contact with the casualties and monitored the surrounding area for other potential individuals. Boscastle Coastguard had also been tasked and the lifeboat crew were able to guide the coastguard to the scene, ensuring all persons were accounted for before being stood down.
Lifeboat Helmsman, Matthew Main said, "I strongly advise everyone to always check tide times before heading out, carry a means of communication, and inform someone of your expected return time." For more information on sea safety visit www.rnli.org/safety
Approximately four miles from returning to the station, the crew was tasked again to a situation at Lobber Point, Port Isaac. They observed a flashing light and discovered a member of the public surrounded by a dozen or so cows, perilously close to the cliff edge. With daylight now fading, the crew maintained visuals with a spotlight until the farmer arrived and safely moved the cows and escorted the member of the public back down to the village. The crew was then stood down and returned to the station where the boat was cleaned, refuelled and readied for service.
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.