RNLI lifeguards rescue three cut off by tide at Tregantle beach

With approximately 500 people in the water over the course of the day, the alert was raised by concerned members of the public.

While RNLI lifeguards set off to the group’s last known location, fellow RNLI lifeguards Seth Doyle and Athalie Redgrave prepared the Inshore Rescue Boat (IRB). As the tide had already risen too high to safely access the area on foot, the IRB launched to begin the search.

The IRB crew soon located the three missing individuals treading water in a small, cut‑off cove around 400 metres east of the red and yellow flags. Due to shallow water and hazardous rocks, the IRB could not reach them directly. Crewman Seth Doyle entered the water with a rescue tube and made the decision to tow all three casualties back to the IRB in a single trip.

Once safely aboard, the casualties were transported back to Tregantle Beach for assessment. All three were found to be in good condition and were discharged with safety advice.

The rescue comes after a busy Whitsun half-term week saw large number of visitors on Cornwall's beaches.

RNLI lifeguard Seth Doyle urged beachgoers to stay informed about local conditions:

'We’re always happy to help, but tidal cut‑offs can happen quickly here. Please speak to the lifeguards about the tides when you arrive and take a moment to read the safety signs. It makes all the difference.'

Notes to editors:

• Images show busy half-term crowds at Tregantle beach and tidal warning signs.

• Tregantle beach has daily RNLI lifeguard cover from 10am to 6pm until 27 September.