Newbiggin RNLI lifeboat responds to multiple persons blowing out to sea

The call had been received by Humber Coastguard reporting that three paddleboards and five persons were unable to make the shore at Cambois beach in a strong and gusty offshore wind. Newbiggin's Atlantic B class lifeboat 'Richard Wake Burdon' was quickly launched and headed south to the search zone in Cambois Bay. The volunteer crew quickly found the five paddleboarders and brought them into the safety of the lifeboat.

After initial casualty care and safety checks carried out the lifeboat brought the casualties onto Cambois beach into the care of Newbiggin and Blyth coastguards.

Mike Frazer, lifeboat helm said ' on arrival at Cambois the group of paddleboarders were quickly located and after checking them over they were transferred to the Newbiggin and Blyth coastguards who had supported us throughout the rescue operation.'

The current spell of hot weather and a strong offshore wind were factors leading to this rescue and it is important to remember the following;

How can I stay safe near open water?

Where to be: when near open water, keep well away from the water’s edge. Stick to designated paths and beware of uneven, unstable or slippery ground. If you fall into the water, Float to Live.

What to look for: make sure you read any safety signs so you know of any hazards specific to the area you’re in. Check the tides and seek local advice to avoid being cut off by the tide.

Reduce the risks: avoid walking alone or at night. Always make sure you have a means of calling for help.

What should I do to reduce the risks on the water?

If you’re going on the water, whether you’re stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking, here are some tips to help you stay safe.

Keep buoyant: wear a suitable personal flotation device – if you end up in the water, fatigue can kick in quickly. A buoyancy aid could save your life.

Call for help: always carry a suitable means of calling for help in case you end up in difficulty.

Have shore cover: always tell someone on the shore your plans – where you are going and what time you expect to be back. If you’re not back, they’ll be able to raise the alarm.

What should I do if I find myself in the water unexpectedly?

Around half the people who die at the coast never intended to go in the water. If you find yourself in the water unexpectedly, you should Float to Live by following these steps:

1. Tilt your head back and submerge your ears
2. Relax and try to breathe normally
3. Use your hands to help you stay afloat
4. It's OK if your legs sink, everyone floats differently
5. Spread your arms and legs to improve stability

Newbiggin RNLI is based at Sandridge, Newbiggin by the Sea, Northumberland. The station was established in 1851 and currently operates an Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat Richard Wake Burdon. This year, 2026, is our 175th year of saving lives at sea, an anniversary where we reflect on the incredible dedication of our volunteers, past and present and the incredible support we receive from our community and beyond - all of this has made our 175 year journey possible.

If you would like to find out more about Newbiggin lifeboat station, its volunteers and its heritage then please look at the local website.

RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact:

Richard Martin, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for RNLI North and East, [email protected]

Clare Hopps, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for North East and East England, 07824 518641, [email protected]

Richard Grange, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for North East and East England, 07483 112015, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]

Key facts about the RNLI

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.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

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.