Lifeboats launched after reports of a person stuck at near Ballard Down
HM Coastguard received a call from a person who had been watching a small light near the base of Ballard Down, quite close to Ballard Point.
The coastguard tasked both Swanage lifeboats to investigate and also asked Swanage and St Albans cliff rescue teams to prepare.
The conditions were cold but clear, with good visibility, and it was soon apparent that the only light in the area was the anchor-light of a small yacht anchored quite close inshore in the area reported. A quick search along the cliffs didn't uncover anything else and the coastguard were happy to stand down the cliff teams and lifeboats - a false alarm with good intent.
Both lifeboats were ready for further service at 7.00pm
ALB Crew: (Coxn) Gavin Steeden, Robert Aggas, Steve Williams, Duncan Youngs, Scott Turner, Adam O'Neill
ILB Crew: (Helm) Becky Mack, Andy Redout, Fergus Holley, Archie Burgess
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The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 lives.
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