Byline: St Catherines RNLI lifeboat station takes delivery of relief Atlantic 75 lifeboat Page Content:

The crew of the RNLI St Catherine's Lifeboat Crew today took delivery of a relief Atlantic 75 Inshore Lifeboat named Elizabeth Ann (B-732).

The permanent RNLI St Catherines Lifeboat, the Eric Rowse is returning to the UK for her scheduled survey and refit by RNLI Engineers at the RNLI Headquarters in Poole.

The relief lifeboat had been driven by trailer, by ferry crossing, to Jersey by members of the RNLI headquarters shore team. Several RNLI St Catherines crewmembers were on hand Thursday afternoon to help transfer the lifeboats between trailers and then commission the relief lifeboat, after fully fitting out and testing her safety equipment.

The Elizabeth Ann is expected to be on loan to Jersey for the full duration of the survey and refit, approximately three months.

The Elizabeth Ann is an Atlantic 75 inshore lifeboat, the same type of lifeboat as the resident “Eric Rowse” inshore lifeboat and carries the same emergency equipment, but has a different make of engines.

Notes to editors
About The Atlantic 75 Inshore Lifeboat
The Atlantic 75 is a B class lifeboat. Constructed of a GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) rigid hull with inflatable sponsons. The sponsons are extremely durable and made of Hypalon coated Nylon material. The twin Yamaha outboards each producing 75 hp are modified at the RNLI's Inshore Lifeboat Centre at Cowes to prevent water entering in the event of a capsize. This allows them to be restarted when the vessel is righted.

Photo Attached.  Crew Member Andy Pryke stows equipment on the relief lifeboat
Photo Credit: RNLI.

RNLI media contacts
If further details are required please contact Phil Taylor Home 855244 or Mobile 07700855244.

Byline: Moelfre RNLI lifeboat rescues pensioner following accident at sea Page Content:

The Moelfre inshore RNLI lifeboat launched at 4pm yesterday afternoon (8 October), after an elderly man suffered an accident on board his yacht.  The man in his 80s was thrown against the winch of the yacht in rough seas off Cemaes Bay.

He continued to sail towards Benllech but was in too much pain to continue his journey, so dropped his anchor and called for assistance.

The Moelfre inshore RNLI lifeboat arrived on scene and volunteer helmsman Alan Owen decided to transfer two of his crew to the yacht. Two of the RNLI volunteer crew stayed on board the boat with the casualty, as they suspected he had broken ribs. The crew helped to minimise his movement whilst the vessel was towed into Red Wharf Bay where he was transferred to waiting paramedics.

Dave Massey, RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer at Moelfre says:

‘The first aid training the RNLI provides to its volunteer lifeboat crews enables them to deal with emergency situations such as this with efficiency and confidence. Thankfully the man who is an RNLI supporter was not too badly injured and we wish him a speedy recover.’

Notes to editors
Moelfre RNLI lifeboat station has been operating since 1830. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to www.moelfrelifeboat.co.uk

RNLI media contacts
For more information please telephone Dave Massey, Moelfre RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press officer on 07917 267213

RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coast. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. 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 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

Elusen sydd wedi ei chofrestru yn Lloegr, yr Alban a Gweriniaeth Iwerddon

Byline: Shoreham RNLI rescues three in river boat capsize Page Content:

Shoreham Inshore Lifeboat was launched early Tuesday evening (18.00) to investigate reports that a small boat had capsized, pitching its three occupants, one adult and two teenagers, into the River Adur.

The three had been attempting to cross the river to board their boat when the small ‘tender’ they were using rolled over opposite the Sussex Yacht Club.

As the inshore lifeboat arrived on scene it was apparent that the adult male had already managed to make it ashore, and was being attended to by ambulance paramedics at Surry Boatyard. The other two occupants, in their teens, were soon located, sitting on top of the cabin of a boat moored close to the opposite bank where the youngsters, neither wearing lifejackets, had managed to haul themselves out of the water.

The inshore crew transferred the two wet and very cold casualties across to the Surry Boatyard for medical assessment by the paramedics before recovering the upturned boat, that was rapidly drifting downstream in the fast ebbing tide.

Further Information

Dave Cassan
Mobile 1 07734 000810
Mobile 2 07525 177182
Office Hours 01903 854908
Home 01273 452036

RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity 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 over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. 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 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

Byline: Female rescued from River Wear after falling from Wearmouth Bridge Page Content:

Sunderland’s RNLI Inshore lifeboat was amongst a host of emergency services that were called to rescue a distressed female who was seen falling almost 100ft into the River Wear.

Shortly before seven o’clock this evening [Sunday 12th October] Humber Coastguard requested the launch of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution’s (RNLI) Atlantic 85 Inshore Lifeboat “Wolseley” from Sunderland Lifeboat Station.

The request came after Northumbria Police received reports of a female being sighted on the wrong side of safety railings on the Wearmouth Bridge.

The RNLI lifeboat was deployed to the scene along with personnel from Tyne and Wear Fire Brigade, Royal Air Force, North East Ambulance, Northumbria Police, and Sunderland Coastguard Rescue Team.

Paul Nicholson, Senior Helmsman at Sunderland RNLI said, “While we were preparing to launch we were advised that the incident had escalated as the female had now fallen into the river from the bridge.”

Prior to the lifeboat arriving at the scene; a member of the Fire Brigade entered the water wearing a safety line and was able to drag the lifeless female to the quayside. Once at the quayside she was attached to a line and pulled up the two metre high quayside onto the footpath.

Fire Brigade crews and Coastguard Rescue Volunteers gave emergency first aid to the female before handing her over to Paramedics. Once stabilised at the scene she was then transferred to Sunderland Royal Hospital for further treatment.

After confirming that the casualty and the emergency personnel were all clear of the water the lifeboat was released from the incident to return to station.

Paul Nicholson added “The member of the fire brigade who entered the water did extremely well to reach the lifeless casualty and bring her to the quayside. It is unclear at this time if the women fell or jumped from the bridge into the water”.

FOR ANY FURTHER INFORMATION REGARDING THE CASUALTIES PERSONAL DETAILS OR CONDITION; PLEASE CONTACT EITHER NORTHUMBRIA POLICE OR SUNDERLAND ROYAL HOSPITAL.

About one hour later shortly after eight o’clock RNLI and Coastguard volunteers were once again called into action when Humber Coastguard received a report from a concerned member of the public about a group of eight youths who were in the River Wear near Sunderland Yacht Club. Shortly after launching both RNLI lifeboats it was stated that all eight had left the water and were in no further difficulty.

After being given safety advice by Coastguard and Police Officers they were able to return home unaided.

Paul Nicholson said “Going swimming in the River at anytime is extremely dangerous never mind at night in the pitch black. Although these youths turned out to be in no difficulty; we thank the member of the public for calling the Coastguard on 999 as it could have easily developed into a major incident. 

As a charity the RNLI relies on voluntary donations and legacies from the public for its income.

Image Caption – Wearmouth Bridge

RNLI media contacts

For more information please telephone either:

Paul Nicholson, Sunderland RNLI Press Officer on 07957 494 077 or email - pauldnich@yahoo.co.uk or

Anthony Jobling, Sunderland RNLI Deputy Press Officer on 07977 152 399 or email – Anthony.jobling2@btinternet.com

As an alternative please contact Alison Levett, Media Relations Manager North on 07786 668 912 or alevett@rnli.org.uk or RNLI Headquarters Public Relations on 01202 336000.

RNLI online

For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

For specific information relating to Sunderland RNLI visit www.rnlisunderland.org
 
Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity 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 over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK.

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 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

Byline: Fears for 14 year old sparks lifeboat call Page Content:

Flint RNLI Lifeboat ‘Sir y Fflint was launched at 5.50pm on Saturday.  A passing motorist reported seeing a girl on the barrier of the Blue Bridge at Queensferry, the car driver became concerned and turned back to check if she was alright but by then she had disappeared.  
 
In the meantime a lady had rung the police to say she was concerned that her 14year old daughter had not returned home. There were also reports of persons seeing a young girl being chased by some youths in the vicinity and a shoe was found on the bridge.

The RNLI lifeboat was launched and a search was made in the area near the bridge.
However the lifeboat was subsequently stood down following information from the police that the girl had been found safe and well.
 
Alan Forrester, RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, Flint says ‘ Incidents involving young persons give cause for concern, thankfully, the young girl was found safe which was a big relief to the crew’. 
 
Notes to editors
· Flint lifeboat station has been operating since 1966. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to www.rnli.org.uk/flint

RNLI media contacts
For more information please telephone Ann Dunn, RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 07976563337 or anndunn60@aol.com
 
RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity 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 over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. 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 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

Elusen sydd wedi ei chofrestru yn Lloegr, yr Alban a Gweriniaeth Iwerddon

Byline: RNLI St Helier lifeboats do double duty at Les Minquiers Page Content:

The RNLI St. Helier lifeboats were called out twice today, Sunday 12th October 2008, to assist crews and vessels in distress.

The first call came just after 08:30 this morning and resulted in both St. Helier lifeboats, the inshore lifeboat "David Page" and the all weather lifeboat "Alexander Coutanche", launching to assist a crewman on a yacht about a mile north of the North-East Minquiers buoy who had suffered an injury during a fall on deck.

The faster inshore lifeboat arrived on scene in approximately 30 minutes and a member of the crew went aboard to assess the extent of the injuries. Due to the level of pain, it was decided not to move the casualty but to administer a inhalant pain-killer whilst the yacht returned to St. Helier. Both lifeboats accompanied the yacht back to St. Helier where an ambulance was waiting to take the injured crewman to hospital.

Both lifeboats were back on station by 10:15, ready for their next call.

The next call came at 16:50 from a motor boat which had suffered an engine failure close to the North-East Minquiers buoy.

The 50' motorboat with two people on board had anchored for safety pending the arrival of the all weather lifeboat "Alexander Coutanche" which arrived on scene at 18:00. After a brief assessment, the vessel was taken under tow and arrived back in St. Helier at 19:40.

By 20:00 the Alexander Coutanche was back on station, refuelled and ready for her next shout.

RNLI media contacts Jonathan Lee
Press Officer, RNLI St. Helier
07829 865 500

RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity 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 over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. 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 137,000 lives.

A charity registered in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SCO37736). Charity number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland

Byline: Bournemouth and Boscombe RNLI lifeguards put their skills into practice yesterday afternoon after a routine training exercise turned into two real-life incidents. Page Content:

Lifeguard teams at Boscombe were practising radio calls on the west side of Boscombe Pier when they were approached by a man seeking medical attention.

The guards checked him over and, thankfully, no ambulance was required. The gentleman was told to visit his doctor.

Just a few hours later, a woman collapsed near to the lifeguard radio communications room, located on the West Cliff at Bournemouth – meaning lifeguard Joseph Headland was able to quickly respond and ensure she was comfortable. The woman required no further treatment.

The incidents occurred as Dorset lifeguards prepare to return to 12 of Dorset’s busiest beaches this Saturday (4 May), providing safety cover seven days a week from 10am to 6pm over the bank holiday weekend and throughout the summer season. 

Barry Heathfield, RNLI Lifeguard Manager for Dorset, said: ‘Training is an essential part of being a lifeguard, as our main role is to prevent these incidents from occurring. The fact that the lifeguards were able to act swiftly and with confidence is a credit to their training.’

Beachgoers are encouraged to check tide times and local weather forecasts before their visit, and if planning on taking part in any water sports, should ensure that any equipment is in seaworthy condition. If you’re a beginner, it’s important to get lessons in the basics.

In addition, the RNLI’s new Beach Finder app enables users to search the UK for lifeguarded beaches and read up on local hazards. With real-time weather updates from the Met Office, it also removes any doubt over whether to pack the umbrella or the sun cream! The app is available to download for free on Apple or Android devices at www.rnli.org/beach.

ENDS
Notes to editors
• Cover will commence this Saturday (4 May) on the following beaches: Southbourne, Fishermans Walk, Boscombe East & West, Bournemouth East & West, Durley Chine, Alum Chine, Branksome Chine, Shore Road and Sandbanks in Poole.
• Weymouth’s main beach will also commence summer patrols from 4 May.
• Nine additional beaches will be providing cover from 6 July - 8 September inclusive, which are: Highcliffe, Friars Cliff, Avon, Manor Steps, East Cliff, Canford Cliffs, Green Hill, West Bay and Lyme Regis.
• Last year there were almost 3 million visitors to Dorset beaches with the charity’s lifeguards attending 2,168 incidents and assisting 2,347 people, from helping with lost children and minor first aid to more serious incidents.

RNLI media contacts
For more information, contact:
• Lauren Hockey, RNLI Public Relations Officer, on 01202 336195 / 07884 117369 or by email at lauren_hockey@rnli.org.uk

Byline: Three shouts for Appledore’s RNLI volunteer lifeboat crew Page Content:

Appledore’s, RNLI volunteer lifeboat crew had a busy weekend (Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 September 2008) with three shouts over the two days. As people enjoyed the welcome sunshine and calm seas, Appledore’s two RNLI lifeboats were called out to rescue people who found themselves in trouble at sea in very different circumstances.  

The volunteer crew received their first call on Saturday at 13.44, to a report of two people with two dogs who were stranded on a sandbank off Northam Burrows, at the estuary end of Westward Ho! beach, on an incoming tide.  Two RNLI lifeguards from Sandymere paddled out to the couple on their rescue boards and stayed with them until Appledores RNLI inshore lifeboat (ILB) the Douglas Paley arrived. They were helped aboard the ILB with the two dogs and brought safety back to the lifeboat station. 
 
The second shout occurred at 15:15 on Saturday, when Appledore’s all weather lifeboat (ALB), the George Gibson, was launched to a 26ft yacht, approximately one and a half miles outside the Bideford Fairway Buoy with engine problems.  On a calm day with no wind to assist him, the yacht required a tow and was put safely on his mooring at Instow before the RNLI lifeboat returned to station and the volunteer crew were stood down.
 
The final shout of the weekend was at 07:30 on Sunday morning. Appledore’s ALB was tasked to assist a 39’ fin keel yacht, Owens Boy, with three people on board. The vessel had gone aground on a falling tide in the fog at Airy Point.  The boarding lifeboat was also tasked as it was evident there would be insufficient water for the ALB to get close enough to the casualty. The yacht was too firmly aground to be towed off and the skipper used his spinnaker poles to act as legs to keep the vessel upright and deployed an anchor. After discussion with the volunteer lifeboat crew, the crew on the yacht remained onboard and planned to refloat at the next high water which was later that evening, satisfied that the boat was stable and the crew were happy, the lifeboat returned to station on standby in case it was needed.
 
Wendy Dale, Appledore’s volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager says the range of shouts over the weekend illustrate the diverse work the RNLI volunteer crews do to help save lives at seas, she says;

‘Both Appledore’s RNLI lifeboats had a busy weekend, dealing with a variety of incidents on and around the water. The crew only find out the nature of the shout when they arrive at the station in response to being paged and it just goes to show how well their training prepares them for all types of incidents.  The volunteer crew also work closely with the RNLI lifeguards who patrol Westward Ho! and Sandymere over the summer months, providing locals and visitors to the area with a rescue service from the beach to the open sea. ’

Notes to editors
· The new web site of Appledore RNLI can be found at www.appledorelifeboat.org.uk which provides an update of all emergency shouts undertaken by the crew

· Appledore RNLI has two lifeboats, an all weather Tyne class lifeboat, the George Gibson, an inshore B class Atlantic 75 lifeboat, the Douglas Paley, plus the boarding boat which is also often used for low water estuary rescues.  These cover a coastal area from Welcome Mouth on the Devon Cornwall border to Morte Point and out to sea up to 100 miles or half way to Wales.

· During its 180-year history Appledore RNLI lifeboat crews have been presented with 31 awards for gallantry.  The Appledore RNLI Lifeboats crews are made up of shipwrights, electricians, builders, bar staff, care workers, paramedics, council employees, etc.  and therefore the need for maritime and lifeboat training is high priority.   On average it costs £1000 per year to train a crew member

· The RNLI is a charity established to save lives at sea.  200,000 people provide voluntary services for the RNLI of which 4,600 are volunteer crew members.  There are 234 lifeboat stations around the coasts of Britain and Ireland, 328 operational lifeboats.  During 2006 the RNLI lifeboat service saved the lives of 8000 people.  The RNLI is totally reliant upon donations and volunteers. That’s why every donation and legacy, whether large or small, is priceless to the RNLI.For more information please contact the lifeboat station on 01237 477170 or Appledore@rnli.org.uk

RNLI contacts         
For further information please contact Amy Caldwell, RNLI Lifeguard Press Officer on 07920 818 807 or acaldwell@rnli.org.uk

The RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk or for the latest news www.rnli.org.uk/press. To donate to Simon’s challenge please visit www.justgiving.com/simonpryce
                                                                                                                                              
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity 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 over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. 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 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

Byline: Pride of Britain success for Torbay RNLI lifeboat crew Page Content: The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is delighted to announce that the Torbay RNLI lifeboat crew will receive the prestigious GMTV Emergency Services Award, as part of this year’s Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards. Now in its 10th year, Pride of Britain has become one of the biggest national events of its kind, celebrating the achievements of our country’s unsung heroes, and will be screened on Wednesday 1 October from 8pm on ITV1.  The courageous crew members from Torbay, Devon rescued eight people from a stricken timber cargo ship caught in a gale force nine storm in January this year. The crew, five of which are volunteers and each hold down full-time jobs, faced torrential rain and strong winds for two hours to reach the Ice Prince. They were the last hope of survival for the sailors as the rescue helicopter had been forced to leave the rescue mission in the appalling conditions, after rescuing 12 of the 20 on board and reaching full capacity. The crippled vessel had been blown almost onto its side in the relentless storm and had lost all power while south east of Berry Head in Devon in January. ‘It was one of those situations where if you got it wrong you were dead. The massive waves were smashing us against the big ship and then moving us away - it was utterly exhausting,’ Coxswain Mark Criddle explained. Coxswain Criddle had to position the lifeboat right under the stern of the 7,500 tonne ship – risking the lifeboat being smashed against the massive ship. As he positioned and re-positioned the lifeboat an exhausting 50 times, each of the remaining eight Ice Prince crew was helped to jump onto the lifeboat amid 25ft waves and lashing rain. During the one-hour 45-minute rescue, one sailor fell into the sea and another had to be hauled onboard after narrowly missing the deck - but miraculously all eight were saved without any injuries. The crew, Coxswain Mark Criddle, Second Coxswain Roger Good, Deputy Second Coxswain John Ashford, Mechanic Mathew Tyler, Second Mechanic Nigel Coulton and Crew Members Darryll Farley and Alex Rowe, will receive their accolade at the star-studded Pride of Britain ceremony held in Central London, which is sponsored by The Co-operative. The annual emotion-charged event is packed with breathtaking stories of heroism and courage, uplifting moments, and hilarious celebrity surprises. Prince Charles and Prime Minister Gordon Brown join more than 100 of the country’s biggest stars - including David Beckham, Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Michael Caine, Emma Bunton, Geri Halliwell, Ant & Dec, Kevin Spacey, Bruce Forsyth and Gordon Ramsay - in saluting the incredible real-life winners. ENDS  For interviews and pictures of winners and celebrities:  Rupert Smith                           020 7293 2885 / 07786 665 266rupert.smith@trinitymirror.com Sarah Vaughan-Brown 020 7293 2583 / 07757 650 619            sarah.vaughan-brown@prideofbritain.com For clips packages and footage of the event:  Lucy Hynes                             07753 626 629lucy.hynes@itv.com  RNLI notes to editors

• Attached are three pictures as follows:

The Torbay RNLI crew with GMTV presenters Fiona Phillips and Ben Shepherd.The Torbay RNLI crew with GMTV’s Lorraine Kelly.The Torbay RNLI crew onboard the Tower lifeboat based on The Thames. RNLI media contacts:For more information about the RNLI, please telephone Tamsin Thomas, RNLI Media Relations Manager South West on 07786 668847. RNLI online:For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press Key facts about the RNLI:The RNLI charity 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 over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. 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 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.    

Byline: RNLI extend lifeguard season on six beaches in the south west and offer vital safety advice Page Content:

With the traditional RNLI lifeguard season in the south west drawing to a close today (30 September), the lifesaving charity will extend vital safety patrols to cover weekends and the October school half term on five of the busiest beaches in Devon and Cornwall and throughout the winter on one beach in Dorset. As they start to pack up the other beaches the RNLI lifeguards also offer essential advice for surfers who will continue to use the water during the winter months. 

Praa Sands and Perranporth in Cornwall, Croyde and Woolacombe in north Devon, and Bantham in south Devon will be patrolled by RNLI lifeguards on weekends during October and for the school half term week at the end October and into November (25 October to Sunday 2 November), thanks to funding provided by the various local authorities and beach owners. Bantham , Praa Sands and Perranporth will be patrolled from 10 am until 6pm, reducing the hours to 10am until 5pm as the nights draw in and Woolacombe and Croyde will be patrolled from 10am until 5pm. 

Barry Heathfield RNLI Divisional Manager for Dorset explains when the RNLI lifeguard service is being operated in Dorset over the winter, he says;
 
‘Two RNLI lifeguards will patrol Boscombe east beach from 1 October right through until the start of next season, with the exception of Christmas day.  They will begin patrols at 10am each morning with a continual review of the finish time, which will start as 6pm and become earlier as the evenings become darker’

Steve Instance RNLI Inspector for lifeguards in the south west, says:

‘After a dismal summer, it would be great to get some late sun in October. The sea temperature is still warm at this time of year and with the availability of cheap wetsuits and surf equipment we expect the beaches, which continue to have RNLI lifeguard patrols to be busy.

If people can’t make it to a lifeguarded beach or they are planning to brave the water later than November, they should check their chosen beach is suitable for their particular activity. When at the beach, they should look out for safety signs and be aware of the weather, tides and other potential hazards, such as rip currents, at all times.’

Surf conditions are usually at their best during the winter months, when the regions coasts pick up swells generated from storms out to sea. Steve offers specific advice to help surfers enjoy the water in safety this winter, he says;
 
‘Its particularly important that inexperienced or novice surfers make sure they have considered the RNLI’s safety advice before they go in the water.

We would always recommend getting a lesson from an approved BSA or ISA surf school, which will give you a good grounding to start progressing in the sport. Once you have the basic skills, you should not try to surf in conditions beyond your ability and experience, this is dangerous and likely to set you back in your development. It’s a good idea to ask an experienced local surfer about the conditions and where the safest place to enter the water and surf is.

Always try and surf with a friend, and let someone on shore know where you will be and what time you expect to be back. If you do find yourself in trouble never abandon your board, it will to keep you afloat, signal for help by waving your arm and shouting for help, if you see someone in trouble dial 999/112 and ask for the Coastguard’

The RNLI’s website, www.rnli.org.uk/beachsafety, also has plenty of practical advice and tips on how to stay safe. For information on your chosen beach, please visit www.goodbeachguide.co.uk

Notes to editors

· In 2007, RNLI lifeguards in the south west aided 9,505 people and saved 62 lives.

· The RNLI is a registered charity, which exists to save lives at sea. It relies on voluntary contributions and legacies to ensure its lifeguards and volunteer crews have the very best training and equipment.

RNLI media contacts For more information please contact RNLI lifeguard Press Officer Amy Caldwell on 07920 818 807 or acaldwell@rnli.org.uk
 
RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity 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 over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. 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 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

Byline: Fundraising Exmouth RNLI Lifeboat ball a success for seventh year running Page Content:

For the seventh year running, the Exmouth RNLI Lifeboat Ball was held on Saturday September 27. A colourful reception greeted the guests outside the Exmouth Pavilion with the local samba group Street Heat drumming a welcoming beat.

Inside, after the evening meal, the 284 guests took part in an auction with items such as a print by Devon artist Kimberly Rainford, a make-over session at Debenhams and a flying lesson up for grabs. A popular auction item came from Stuart Line cruises who donated a years pass for a family of four to the 70 family attractions in Devon. Raffle tickets were also on sale with an array of prizes donated by local businesses, including Exmouth Tescos.

Musical entertainment by the Dodgey Practice soul band soon had the guests up and dancing. In the bar area was a fun casino, helping to raise yet more funds.

Ian Taylor, Chairman of the Lifeboat Ball committee and volunteer lifeboatman said, “It’s great that it again proved to be so enormously successful and continues to grow in numbers. We are looking forward to doing it all again next year.”

The evening raised around £3,500 for the RNLI.

Notes to editors

• Photo attached is of Street Heat outside Exmouth Pavilion. Please credit :
  Clint Woodman, Exmouth Photo Services.
• There are more images available.
  Please contact Jo Damsell if you would like photos of some of the attending guests (lifeboat crew with partners), close ups of Street Heat or pictures of soul band  Dodgey Practice.

RNLI media contacts
For more information please contact Jo Damsell 07551 635363. Email JDamsell@aol.com

The RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk.  News releases and other media resources are available at www.rnli.org.uk/press. For information on Exmouth RNLI visit www.exmouth-lifeboat.org.uk.

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity 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 over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. 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 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

Byline: Lone surfer causes concern at Newquay Page Content:

Newquay RNLI’s volunteer crews abandoned their monthly crew meeting on Tuesday 30 September 2008 to search for a body boarder thought to be in difficulties off Great Western beach.

One of the crew member’s mother’s had been watching a lone body boarder through her telescope for a while. The sea was rough and there was little daylight left. She had seen him appearing to be in difficulties then abort an attempt to get back to shore on Great Western. Shortly after that she lost sight of him. Concerned that he may be in difficulties and aware of the failing light she immediately called the lifeboat operations manager, Gareth Horner.

With force 5 winds, heavy surf and failing light Gareth immediately abandoned the crew meeting and launched the lifeboats at 19:30 hrs.

With sufficient crew already at the station the lifeboats were quickly in the water, Mark Morris helming the Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred and Christian Brown at the helm of the Valerie Wilson. On board with Christian was new crew member Duncan Wallace on his very first shout.

Gareth alerted Falmouth coastguards to the surfer’s plight and Newquay coastguard cliff rescue team were tasked. The lifeboats and coastguards searched the coast and surf line from Newquay harbour to Mawgan Porth beach. With no sign of the surfer the lifeboats commenced searching off shore; R193 from Culdrose was also tasked.

At approximately 20:20 hrs a holiday maker who had been fishing off the end of South quay approached the RNLI shore crew and asked what was going on. He immediately recognised that the surfer he had seen coming back into the harbour at about 20:00 hrs could be the casualty. The description partly matched but was not sufficient to stand down the search.

The lifeboat volunteers, coastguards and R193 continued to make a thorough search of the bay.

At about 21:00 hrs another member of the public approached the shore crew at the RNLI lifeboat station. He had been in the harbour taking photos and as he left the harbour he spotted a surfer with a small surf board walking back up the hill from North quay. He had also noticed that there was only one surfer in the bay whilst he had been taking his photos He and his wife had returned to their hotel and spotted the search in progress. They returned to the harbour in case their information could help.

At approximately 21:30 hrs, after a thorough search and two possible confirmations that the surfer may have made his way back to the harbour the volunteers were stood down.

Surfers should always consider surfing with a buddy. If you are surfing alone and become aware that an emergency services search is taking place please let Falmouth Coastguards know you are safe and well - it could be you they are looking for. You may not have been in difficulties but some one may have thought you were and dialled 999. Falmouth coastguards can be contacted on 01326 317575. A quick call to them may resolve a full scale emergency services search.

Steve Instance RNLI Inspector for lifeguards in the south west, says:
People should check their chosen beach is suitable for their particular activity. When at the beach, they should look out for safety signs and be aware of the weather, tides and other potential hazards, such as rip currents, at all times.’

Surf conditions are usually at their best during the winter months, when the regions coasts pick up swells generated from storms out to sea. Steve offers specific advice to help surfers enjoy the water in safety this winter, he says;
‘You should not try to surf in conditions beyond your ability and experience, this is dangerous. Always try and surf with a friend, and let someone on shore know where you will be and what time you expect to be back. If you do find yourself in trouble never abandon your board, it will help to keep you afloat, signal for help by waving your arm and shouting for help, if you see someone in trouble dial 999/112 and ask for the Coastguard’
This was the first shout for new volunteer Duncan Wallace.

Atlantic crew: Mark Morris (helm), Michael Martin, Aaron Trebilcock, Bryan Adamson
D class crew: Christian Brown (helm), Rob Green, Duncan Wallace

For more press information please contact Tracy Cayton-Smith, Newquay RNLI Lifeboat Station Press Officer on 07703737330.

RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity 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 over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. 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 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

Byline: Falmouth RNLI assists 18ft Punt Badger with engine failure Page Content:

At 09:41 Falmouth Coastguard requested that Falmouth Inshore Lifeboat be launched following a VHF call from the two persons onboard the 18ft Punt Badger which was drifting towards the St Just shoreline in adverse weather conditions having suffered engine failure. The boat did not have an anchor and neither of the persons onboard had a lifejacket.

The RNLI inshore lifeboat launched from her slipway at 09:46 arriving on scene at 09:49. The two persons were taken off the punt and placed onboard the inshore lifeboat before a towline was connected to their punt. The boat was then towed back to Mylor Harbour where it was safely moored up on the pontoon at 10:20. The inshore lifeboat was then released to return to station.
 
The inshore lifeboat was back on its slipway by 10:32 where it was refuelled, rehoused and was ready for service by 10:45.

The two people onboard the 18ft Picarooner Punt had been heading down river from Mylor to go fishing in their Oyster Dredger but had decided to pop out into the Carrick Roads to assess the weather conditions first. Their outboard had then failed leaving them at the mercy of the weather, with all their safety equipment still onboard their main boat. 

RNLI media contacts
For further information please contact Gerry Gearon, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer  on 07792158085 or Simon Culliford, Lifeboat Assistant Press Officer on 07971986978.
 
RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity 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 over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. 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 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

Byline: Bude RNLI grow a tache for cash Page Content: Bude’s RNLI volunteer lifeboat crew and committee members banished their razors for the month of September to grow a sponsored moustache for the Everyman male cancer campaign, TacheBack, raising over £1,500 for research into prostate and testicular cancer.  From 1 September to 1 October, the 20 RNLI lifeboat crew and committee members from Bude neglected their upper lip hair to grow moustaches. Before they could embark on the challenge, a couple of the participants had to shave off their established facial hair. On August 31, Bude’s Lifeboat Operations Manager Chris Cloak kick started the fundraiser by shaving off the beard he has sported for the last 40 years. His children, in their mid thirties had never seen their Dad without his beard. While Paul Finn, Chairman of Bude RNLI had to remove his beloved moustache. Jeremy Brown, one of Bude’s RNLI volunteer lifeboat crewmembers says; ‘Fellow crewmember, Liam Sharpe convinced us to take part as a team after he did it with his work colleagues last year. We’ve had a brilliant time; Everyman is a great campaign, which raises awareness and funds for research into testicular and prostate cancer. The Bude RNLI team spans a range of age groups, and each of us will be at an increased risk of these cancers at some time, so we felt it was important to support the campaign. As the RNLI is also a charity we are more than aware of the need for local support.  We’ve had a great reaction locally, whilst in the initial stages of growing a moustache we certainly raised a few eyebrows and we’ve managed to raise a couple of hundred pounds each. Mike Tame, who works as a plumber as well as volunteering on the crew, managed to get every one of his customers to donate even the smallest amount. It’s been fun, but I don’t think the look suits me, I was glad to shave the moustache off on the 1 October!’ If you’d like to donate money to the Bude RNLI TacheBack team you can visit www.tacheback.com/bude-lifeboat-crew Notes to editors 

• Please find a picture of the Bude TacheBack team, sporting their fully grown moustaches attached, please credit Lisa Tame

 Front row from left to right: Brown Cardoo, Chris Wilson, Harry McConville, Liam Sharpe, Robin Bale
Back row from left to right: Chris Cloke (LOM), Paul Finn (Chairman), Dave Hunt, Bob Price, Andy Cloke, Jez Brown, Mark Palmer, Jeff Weaver, Mike Tame, Chris Bale
 
Only five missing were Paul Kastell, Andy Davies, Branch Treasurer Brian Hunt, Dave Monkton and Des Gregory (President) due to other commitments but they still did the TacheBack challenge! 

• The RNLI is a registered charity, which exists to save lives at sea. It relies on voluntary contributions and legacies to ensure its lifeguards and volunteer crews have the very best training and equipment.

RNLI contacts          For further information please contact Amy Caldwell, RNLI Lifeguard Press Officer on 07920 818 807 or acaldwell@rnli.org.ukThe RNLI onlineFor more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk or for the latest news www.rnli.org.uk/press.                                                                                                                                               Key facts about the RNLIThe RNLI charity 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 over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. 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 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.        

Byline: Saturday sail ends in rescue in Newquay bay Page Content:

Newquay’s RNLI volunteer crews leapt into action on at 14:50 hrs on Saturday 4th October 2008 to assist a 12 ft dinghy in difficulties in Newquay bay.

Falmouth coastguards received a 999 call from a member of the public reporting a capsized dinghy just behind the surf line off Tolcarne beach. The 12 ft Miracle dinghy, Morvoren, had capsized and both of its occupants were in the water trying to right the vessel. They were also struggling to keep it out of the surf.

Four surfers had spotted the plight of the grandfather and grandson and were standing whilst they waited for the lifeboats to arrive, ready to assist the pair should the situation deteriorate further.

Newquay’s RNLI D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson launched with Kevin Walsh at the helm swiftly followed by the Atlantic 85 lifeboat Gladys Mildred helmed by Christian Brown.

Arriving on scene the volunteer crew found the dinghy completely inverted mast down and its two crew in the water. Both of the casualties were taken aboard the Atlantic 85 lifeboat whilst Kevin and his crew attempted to right the dinghy.

Unable to right the boat, the D class lifeboat took the dinghy in tow back more sheltered water outside the harbour. There, further attempts to right the dinghy were successful and the boat was towed back to the harbour. The casualties were taken safely ashore.

Notes to editors
Picture courtesy of Terry Barnecutt. Please credit accordingly. www.terrybarnecutt.co.uk

RNLI media contact
For more press information please contact Tracy Cayton-Smith, Newquay RNLI Lifeboat Station Press Officer on 07703737330.

RNLI onlineFor more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity 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 over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. 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 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

Byline: At 9.45pm last night (Wednesday 1 May) both the Fowey all-weather and inshore lifeboats were launched following reports of a car that had driven into the river from the car-ferry slipway at Bodinnick. Page Content:

Fortunately the male driver was able to struggle free of the vehicle and swim to shore where, even though very unwell, he was able to tell witnesses that he had been on his own in the car.

The first paramedic team arrived at Bodinnick and were ferried to the casualty who was on the Fowey side of the river, by the inshore lifeboat crewmembers after which they returned to hunt, with the all-weather crew for the car using strong searchlights and by dragging the river bottom with their anchor.  After 20 minutes they located something in about 10 metres of water.  SAL Divers were brought in to deal with the situation under the water and they were able to confirm that the car was empty.

The fire service were also on scene bringing extra search lights. The operation involved 10 local fire crew and the Operational Support Vehicle from St Austell.

All told there were well over 30 emergency services personnel from the lifeboat, fire, ambulance and police teams.  Also on the water were staff from the Harbour Office and the local Water Taxi.

After it was confirmed that the car was empty the RNLI volunteers were stood down and the lifeboats returned to station at half past midnight.

RNLI notes to editors
• We understand there may be some pictures of the activities last night. If they become available during the morning these will be posted up.

RNLI media contacts
For more information please contact Cath Ellis, volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for Fowey RNLI on 07969 693218.  Other RNLI media contacts include Tamsin Thomas, RNLI Public Relations Manager, on 07786 668847 or email Tamsin_Thomas@rnli.org.uk or the Duty RNLI Press Officer on 01202 336789.   

Byline: At 9.45pm last night (Wednesday 1 May) both the Fowey all-weather and inshore lifeboats were launched following reports of a car that had driven into the river from the car-ferry slipway at Bodinnick. Page Content:

Fortunately the male driver was able to struggle free of the vehicle and swim to shore where, even though very unwell, he was able to tell witnesses that he had been on his own in the car.

The first paramedic team arrived at Bodinnick and were ferried to the casualty who was on the Fowey side of the river, by the inshore lifeboat crewmembers after which they returned to hunt, with the all-weather crew for the car using strong searchlights and by dragging the river bottom with their anchor.  After 20 minutes they located something in about 10 metres of water.  SAL Divers were brought in to deal with the situation under the water and they were able to confirm that the car was empty.

The fire service were also on scene bringing extra search lights. The operation involved 10 local fire crew and the Operational Support Vehicle from St Austell.

All told there were well over 30 emergency services personnel from the lifeboat, fire, ambulance and police teams.  Also on the water were staff from the Harbour Office and the local Water Taxi.

After it was confirmed that the car was empty the RNLI volunteers were stood down and the lifeboats returned to station at half past midnight.

RNLI notes to editors
• We understand there may be some pictures of the activities last night. If they become available during the morning these will be posted up.

RNLI media contacts
For more information please contact Cath Ellis, volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for Fowey RNLI on 07969 693218.  Other RNLI media contacts include Tamsin Thomas, RNLI Public Relations Manager, on 07786 668847 or email Tamsin_Thomas@rnli.org.uk or the Duty RNLI Press Officer on 01202 336789.   

Byline: RNLI rescue late night swimmer who’s lucky to be alive Page Content: A man who jumped off the end of Minehead Harbour late on Sunday night is lucky to be alive thanks to the swift action of a local fisherman and the towns volunteer RNLI Lifeboat crew.  Minehead’s volunteer RNLI lifeboat crew were called into action at approximately 11.35pm on Sunday 21 September following a 999 call to Swansea Coastguard. A party of fisherman reported that a man had run past them, climbed the harbour wall and jumped into the water. It was evident that the man was in grave danger, and thanks to the swift action of one of the fishing party, a Mr Ellis from Minehead who immediately alerted the emergency services and maintained contact with the casualty, the man survived the ordeal. As well as reporting the incident, Mr Ellis was also able to instruct the casualty in how to stay buoyant by swimming on his back. With the tide receding the man was drifting away from the harbour and out to sea and time was of the essence. Minehead’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat was launched with volunteer Helmsman Andrew Escott in command. The crew identified the man just 100 metres from the boathouse. The casualty was in considerable distress and barely able to keep his head above water. Once aboard the Lifeboat a decision was made to transfer the man to the harbour steps where RNLI shorehelpers and Porlock Coastguard gave assistance. The man was then transferred by the Coastguard to Minehead Hospital accompanied by Minehead volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager Dr John Higgie where it is believed his injuries are not life threatening. Dr John Higgie praised the quick thinking of Mr Ellis: ‘This mans efforts definitely saved a life. A few minutes later and it would have been a totally different story. I would always urge people to dial 999 and ask for the coastguard if they see someone in trouble.’ Volunteer Helmsman Andrew Escott continued: ‘It is unusual to launch to an incident so close to the boathouse but it is testament to the speed with which we can put to sea that we were able to get out there and save this mans life.’ Notes to editors

• Attached is a picture of the Minehead RNLI Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat. Please credit Minehead RNLI.

RNLI media contactsFor more information please contact Mat Thresher, volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer at Minehead, on 07801646093. The RNLI onlineFor more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources are available at www.rnli.org.uk/press. Key facts about the RNLIThe RNLI charity 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 over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. 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 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.    

Byline: RNLI rescue late night swimmer who’s lucky to be alive Page Content: A man who jumped off the end of Minehead Harbour late on Sunday night is lucky to be alive thanks to the swift action of a local fisherman and the towns volunteer RNLI Lifeboat crew.  Minehead’s volunteer RNLI lifeboat crew were called into action at approximately 11.35pm on Sunday 21 September following a 999 call to Swansea Coastguard. A party of fisherman reported that a man had run past them, climbed the harbour wall and jumped into the water. It was evident that the man was in grave danger, and thanks to the swift action of one of the fishing party, a Mr Ellis from Minehead who immediately alerted the emergency services and maintained contact with the casualty, the man survived the ordeal. As well as reporting the incident, Mr Ellis was also able to instruct the casualty in how to stay buoyant by swimming on his back. With the tide receding the man was drifting away from the harbour and out to sea and time was of the essence. Minehead’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat was launched with volunteer Helmsman Andrew Escott in command. The crew identified the man just 100 metres from the boathouse. The casualty was in considerable distress and barely able to keep his head above water. Once aboard the Lifeboat a decision was made to transfer the man to the harbour steps where RNLI shorehelpers and Porlock Coastguard gave assistance. The man was then transferred by the Coastguard to Minehead Hospital accompanied by Minehead volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager Dr John Higgie where it is believed his injuries are not life threatening. Dr John Higgie praised the quick thinking of Mr Ellis: ‘This mans efforts definitely saved a life. A few minutes later and it would have been a totally different story. I would always urge people to dial 999 and ask for the coastguard if they see someone in trouble.’ Volunteer Helmsman Andrew Escott continued: ‘It is unusual to launch to an incident so close to the boathouse but it is testament to the speed with which we can put to sea that we were able to get out there and save this mans life.’ Notes to editors

• Attached is a picture of the Minehead RNLI Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat. Please credit Minehead RNLI.

RNLI media contactsFor more information please contact Mat Thresher, volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer at Minehead, on 07801646093. The RNLI onlineFor more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources are available at www.rnli.org.uk/press. Key facts about the RNLIThe RNLI charity 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 over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. 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 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.    

Byline: Diver reported missing off Beadnell Point Page Content:

At  14.04hr on Sunday 21 September 2008, Humber Coastguard paged Seahouses Launch Authority, reporting that a vessel called "Farne  Discovery" had picked up a diver off Beadnell Point, who had lost  contact with his dive buddy.

The diver had been missing for approx 1 hour, and  had been diving from the shore at Beadnell Point. The Lifeboat Ops Manager paged  both lifeboats for immediate launch.

The ILB launched, and just as the ALB  turned to proceed down the slip to the water, Humber Coastguard reported that  the missing diver had been located on the shore at Beadnell. The LOM directed  the ILB to proceed to verify the diver was safe and well, and the ALB returned  to station.

The dive buddy picked up by "Farne Discovery", was handed over to  the ILB and returned to Seahouses, where local coastguards returned him to his  car at Beadnell.

The missing diver was confirmed to be safe and well, by local  coastguards on the shore at Beadnell. The ILB then also returned to station.  Craster Lifeboat had also been tasked to this incident in case it turned into a full scale search.

RNLI media contacts
For more information please telephone Lifeboat Ops Manager / Station Press Officer Ian Clayton, Tel: Boathouse 01665 720370 Home 01665 720100 Mobile 07981 069177 or contact RNLI Public Relations on 01202 336789
 
RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity 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 over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. 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 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.