
Swanage inshore lifeboat launches to recover a dog for the first rescue of 2025
Swanage RNLI volunteers had the first launch of the year when Swanage Coastguard requested assistance in recovering a dog that had gone over the cliffs near Old Harry Rocks.
The dog had been spotted in an area that was not safely accessible by land which was the reason for tasking the lifeboat. The dog was quickly located, taken aboard the ILB and taken to South Beach to be reunited with its owner. Fortunately the dog did not appear to have been injured by the fall.
With the situation resolved the crew were released to return to Swanage.
We urge anyone walking the cliff coastal paths to stay a safe distance away from the edge and if you have a dog to keep it on a lead at all times.
ILB Crew: (Helm) Darren Tomes, Phil Palmer, Richard Lloyd
Shore Crew: (Head Launcher) Nigel Bower, Paul Meacham, Adam O'Neill
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.