Fowey RNLI lifeboat crew rescue man cut off by tide

Fowey crew launched their inshore D class lifeboat in a fresh Easterly wind of 17-21 knots to locate and assist the casualty. St Austell coastguard were on standby at the top of the cliff with ropes in case the lifeboat was unable to reach the casualty. In choppy seas the lifeboat approached the rocks and the crew planned the best point of access. Helm Boris was able to get close enough to allow and crew member Oli to jump from the lifeboat onto the rocks. He then made his way round to the casualty and escorted him back to the drop off point. The casualty was given a lifejacket to wear and both he and Oli then jumped off the rocks onto the lifeboat. The casualty was uninjured and was safely brought ashore to Charlestown harbour.

Fowey Lifeboat Press Officer, Cathy Baillie said: ‘Fowey RNLI volunteers are called out to people who get cut off by the tide, particularly on Polmear Island, on a regular basis. The RNLI advises that people should always check the tide times and heights, keep a lookout for incoming tide and make sure you have enough time to return safely. Always carry a means of calling for help on your person and call 999 and ask for the coastguard if you are in danger or you see someone in danger. Tell someone where you are going and when you’ll be back, so they can raise the alarm with the coastguard if you are overdue.’

RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact:

Cathy Baillie, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for RNLI South West, [email protected]

Amy Caldwell, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for South West England, 07920 818807, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]

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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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