RNLI lifeguards rescue 11 swimmers at Porth Beach

The incident unfolded on Sunday evening (30 August) when RNLI lifeguards were alerted to a large group of people in distress after they moved out of the red and yellow flags and into an area of stronger currents and deeper water.

The group, made up of approximately 11 beachgoers, encountered challenging conditions caused by strong currents, large swell, spring tides and increased river flow following recent rainfall.

Seeing the group were struggling, RNLI lifeguard Louis Harris entered the water, reaching the nearest group of swimmers and providing support using his rescue board before bringing eight casualties to safety. RNLI lifeguard Elodie Sykes also swam out to the casualties with a rescue tube as part of the coordinated rescue.

Meanwhile RNLI lifeguard Harry Barea reached the second group further offshore, where one casualty had become submerged, unconscious and unresponsive in the water. Harry provided immediate assistance and was able to bring the casualty and two others safely ashore. Once on the beach, the casualty became unconscious again and required emergency care while additional support from HM Coastguard and the ambulance service was requested.

All 11 casualties were safely recovered from the water, with one person transferred into the care of paramedics for further assessment. A member of the public on a foil surfboard also assisted the rescue by helping one casualty back to shore.

RNLI Senior Lifeguard Dave Kelly said:

‘This was a significant and complex incident involving a large group of swimmers who got into difficulty in challenging conditions.

‘The teamwork shown by the lifeguards was outstanding. With strong currents, deeper water and a large number of people involved, this incident could have ended very differently. The quick actions, professionalism and training of the lifeguard team played a vital role in achieving a positive outcome.’

The RNLI is reminding beachgoers to check local safety advice before entering the water and to always carry a means of calling for help where possible.

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

Notes to editors:

• RNLI lifeguard patrols take place daily on Porth beach between 10am to 6pm until 27 September

• Fistral beach will have daily RNLI lifeguard patrols between 10am and 6pm until 01 November