Newquay RNLI lifeguards to feature on BBC’s Saving Lives at Sea

The episode, airing on BBC 1 on Wednesday 27 August at 8pm, highlights how lifeguards and volunteer lifeboat crews worked together to save two people who had got into trouble while kayaking off West Pentire Headland in July 2024.

RNLI lifeguard Elenie Shotton and senior lifeguard Harry Reed spotted two people who appeared to be stuck on Goose Rock, a large crop of rocks situated about a mile off from the beach. They quickly launched their Rescue Water Craft (RWC), also contacting Falmouth Coastguard who requested the support of Newquay RNLI lifeboat volunteers.

When the lifeguards arrived, one casualty was on an inflatable kayak, while the other was in the water next to the rocks, trying to swim back towards the kayak. In trying to get back into the kayak, it capsized, leaving both casualties struggling in the difficult conditions.

The RNLI lifeguards worked with Newquay RNLI lifeboat volunteers to rescue the casualties from the water and transport them back to safety. RNLI Lead Lifeguard Supervisor for Newquay, Lewis Timson, said:

‘This rescue is a great example of teamwork between our lifeguards and lifeboat crews. Conditions at any beach can become dangerous, and without such a quick and coordinated response to this incident at Crantock, the outcome could have been very different.

‘We are thrilled that viewers will get to see the professionalism and dedication of our teams in action.’

The tenth series of Saving Lives at Sea shares real RNLI rescues from around the UK and Ireland, told through the real accounts of RNLI lifeguards and volunteer lifeboat crews. From dramatic rescues far out at sea to everyday incidents on the coast, the programme offers unique insight into the lifesaving work of the charity.

Notes to Editors

- Spokespeople are available for interview – please contact the press office on the details below

- This rescue will be featured in the episode broadcast on Wednesday 27 August at 8pm, and will also be available on BBC iPlayer.

For more information please contact Colleen Semple, Communications Placement on [email protected] or Amy Caldwell, Regional Communications Manager on [email protected] or RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789 or via [email protected]