Bantham RNLI lifeguards respond to swimmer in distress at Challaborough

With the aftermath of Storm Amy bringing in large surf and challenging conditions, Falmouth Coastguard received at 999 call from members of the public on the beach, reporting a person struggling in the water at around midday.

The Bantham RNLI lifeguard team immediately launched their Rescue Watercraft (RWC), operated by RNLI lifeguard Matt Liptrott and crewed by RNLI lifeguard Daisy Womack. Battling the strong surf, the pair made the four-kilometer journey around to Challaborough, arriving on scene in less than 12 minutes.

Upon arrival, Daisy was dropped ashore and located the casualty. They had been rescued by an experienced group of local surfers, who had done the right thing by calling 999 and informing the coastguard before assisting the person in difficulty.

After being checked over by Daisy, the casualty was deemed to be safe and well and was able to return home without further medical assistance. The RNLI lifeguard team were stood down and returned to Bantham.

South Devon RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor, Luke Lane Prokopiou, said:

‘This incident shows what a great local community we have here in South Devon, but also illustrates how dangerous our area can be. The quick actions of the surfers and those on the beach who called 999 and asked for the Coastguard meant that help was on it’s way immediately, and our lifeguards answered the call without delay. As we move into the autumn and winter months, the water is getting colder and stormy weather is becoming more frequent, we would like to remind everyone to take extra care around the coast and follow RNLI safety guidance.’

Currently RNLI lifeguards in the south west are patrolling at 23 of the region’s beaches on weekends throughout October (11-12 and 18-19 October), and then daily patrols begin again in October half term from Saturday 25 October until Sunday 2 November.

The RNLI's advice is to:

• Always try to visit an RNLI lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags.

• If you see someone in touch in the water, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

• Check the weather and tide conditions before visiting the coast.

• If you get in trouble in the water, remember to Float To Live; tilt your head back, relax and focus on your breathing, and spread your arms and legs to stay afloat.

Notes to Editors

• Follow the link to see which beaches currently have RNLI lifeguard patrols here 

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

Media contacts 

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