Photographer Caught in Heavy Surf: St Agnes RNLI Rushes to the Rescue

Emergency Call-Out to Porthtowan

The volunteer crew of St Agnes RNLI launched their D-class inshore lifeboat this afternoon following reports of a person caught in heavy surf at Porthtowan.

At 2:45pm, pagers were activated, calling the crew to action. Despite substantial surf in Trevaunance Cove, the team, assisted by shore crew, launched within minutes. HM Coastguard, Falmouth, provided details that the casualty had been photographing surfers when they got into difficulty.

Challenging Conditions off St Agnes Head

Strong offshore winds created choppy seas in the area, making for dangerous conditions despite the good surf. The lifeboat crew of three made rapid progress towards Porthtowan.

However, as they approached, HM Coastguard, Falmouth, confirmed that the casualty had safely self-recovered, and the lifeboat was stood down.

Crew Urge Public to Call for Help if in Doubt

Speaking after the incident, volunteer helm Dan Grant said:

“This is a happy outcome. We have no problem being tasked and stood down when we know that everyone is safe and sound. If you see someone and you think they might be in trouble, it is always better to be safe than sorry. Make a 999 call and ask for the Coastguard.”

The lifeboat was refuelled, rehoused, and ready for service by 3:30pm.

For advice on what to do in an emergency at sea, visit the RNLI website: https://rnli.org/safety/how-to-call-for-help-at-sea.