Newquay RNLI Lifeboat Volunteers Respond to Windsurfer Incident and Other Emergencies

Photo: Tim Stevens, RNLI Sennen Cove.

The volunteer crew of Newquay RNLI Lifeboats had a busy week with multiple call-outs, including a response to a windsurfer reported to be in difficulty near Crantock.

On Saturday, 20 January, at 12.42 pm, the volunteers were alerted to a windsurfer with a yellow sail in the River Gannel, thought to be in trouble. Launching the Atlantic 85 lifeboat, the team quickly reached the location. Upon arrival, they discovered not a windsurfer, but a foil surfer. After a brief conversation with the individual, it was confirmed that he was safe, well, and enjoying the swell in the River Gannel. The lifeboat crew then communicated the surfer’s safety to the Coastguard and were subsequently stood down, returning to Newquay Lifeboat Station to prepare the boat for future service.

This incident marked the third call-out of the week for the Newquay RNLI volunteers. Earlier in the week, they had assisted the Newquay Coastguard search & rescue team, Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 924, Devon & Cornwall Police, South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, and HM Coastguard Padstow in two separate incidents.

The volunteer team received their fourth call of the week on Monday, 22 January at 9.21 am. They were asked to be on immediate readiness as the Newquay Coastguard Rescue Team was aiding a casualty at Towan Beach, following a rescue carried out by a member of the public. The lifeboat crew quickly assembled and awaited further instructions. Fortunately, the casualty was confirmed as safe, and the lifeboat volunteers were stood down at 10.03 am.

Newquay RNLI emphasises the importance of coastal safety and urges the public to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard if they see someone in difficulty along the coast.

The commitment and readiness of the volunteer crew continue to be a vital asset in ensuring the safety of those enjoying the coastal areas around Newquay.