Newquay RNLI lifeboats' volunteers were paged on Thursday 29th July 2010 following reports of people in difficulties off Little Fistral. The Atlantic lifeboat was stood down before she launched, however the D class lifeboat had already launched and proceeded to the scene to ensure all was well.

Lifeguards from Fistral and R192 handled the situation and the D class lifeboat was not required. The Lifeguards press release reads as follows:

RNLI lifeguards on hand as two body boarders rescue three people in difficulty at Little Fistral

RNLI lifeguards on Fistral in Newquay were quickly on the scene this afternoon when four young people were caught in the rip current at neighboring beach Little Fistral. On arrival one of the males had scrambled onto rocks while the other three had been saved by two male body boarders who were also in the water, the RNLI lifeguards helped administer first aid and clear an area for the RNAS Culdrose R192 helicopter to land.

RNLI lifeguards received a request from Falmouth coastguard at around 1.45pm to reports of four people, two young French girls and two young British males, in difficulty in the water on Little Fistral, the small beach around the headland from Fistral beach, which is not lifeguarded.

Lewis Timson, RNLI lifeguard supervisor, who was on roving patrol at the waters edge responded immediately and drove along the beach as far as he could before he was cut off by rocks and made the rest of the way on foot over the rocks.

While Sam Cleasby, RNLI lifeguard responded on the Rescue Water Craft (RWC) from Fistral beach. As they arrived RNAS helicopter Rescue 192, who had been out on exercise was on scene as was a coastguard paramedic who was in the area, and the volunteer crew of Newquay’s D Class lifeboat. One of the males had managed to get himself out of the water by the rocks and was ok, while the other three had been helped in by the two body boarders. They had all swallowed a lot of water and were very unwell.

The RNLI lifeguards administered oxygen to one of the casualties who was in the worst condition, while Lewis cleared a landing area for the helicopter. All three were put on board and taken straight to hospital for treatment.

Lewis says;

‘Fistral is absolutely packed this afternoon, we’ve got around 2.500 people on the beach and another 1,000 in the water, so the RNLI lifeguards are working hard in the bathing area to keep everyone safe. There is quite a rip current that runs out by the rocks towards the Cribber on Little Fistral, which is where they found themselves in difficulty.

We’re hopeful that the three casualties who were airlifted to hospital make a full recovery. They were very lucky that the two body boarders where there and able to help them into shore. With the rescue assets all in close proximity when the incident took place, they were being airlifted off the beach within 15 minutes.’

Tuesday 27July 2010

Newquay RNLI lifeboat rescues family cut off by the tide.

Newquay RNLI lifeboats launched at 16:10 hrs on Tuesday 27th July 2010 following reports of a family trapped by the incoming tide at Bedruthan Steps.

Falmouth coastguards received a 999 call for a member of the public reporting the family of two adults and two children cut off by the tie at the north end of Bedruthan steps. The had been unaware of the incoming tide.

Falmouth coastguards tasked Newquay’s inshore lifeboats and also ask the lifeguards from Mawgan Porth if they could attend in their rescue boat. Newquay RNLI lifeboats launched with Ben Eglinton and Ian Jepson at the helms.

Lifeguards Lee Parker and Mark Ebbage were first on scene. Knowing the lifeboats were on the way and that the casualties were in no immediate danger they went ashore and reassured the family. Ian Jepson in the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, took two of the casualties off the beach to the bottom of the steps before returning for the other two.

The family were on holiday from South London.

People are always advised to check tide times and seek advice regarding the accessibility of long stretches of coast. Bedruthan is one of many long beaches with very limited access points making a hasty retreat very difficult.

Monday 26July 2010

Newquay RNLI lifeboat tows fishing boat to safety

Newquay RNLI Atlantic 85 lifeboat launched at 11:10 hrs on Monday 26th July 2010 to assist a disabled fishing boat.

Fishing trip boat Baloo was about 400m off Towan headland and had fishing nets tangled around its propeller and steering gear.. The boat had nine persons on board, unable to make way. With no other fishing vessels in the vicinity, the skipper requested the assistance of Newquay’s inshore lifeboat

The Atlantic 85 lifeboat Gladys Mildred launched with Ben Eglinton at the helm. Arriving on scene the lifeboat volunteers took the Baloo in tow. With the tide out, access to the harbour was not possible so the fishing boat was moored on a mooring buoy in the bay and the occupants transferred to shore in the lifeboat.

25 July 2010

Newquay RNLI lifeboat crew recover body

Newquay's Atlantic lifeboat returned to sea shortly after exercise to recover a body 100m off Pentire headland. The body was then taken to the harbor and handed over to the authorities.

24 July 2010

Jet skiers rescued by Newquay RNLI lifeboats

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched at 20:40hrs on Saturday 24th July 2010 to rescue two broken down jet skiers.

Falmouth coastguard received a 999 call from a member of the public who had spotted a red flare fired by the tow jet skiers. They also thought that one of the party may be injured so suggested a stretcher may be required.

Newquay’s inshore lifeboats launched with Ross King and Christian Brown at the helms. Arriving on scene they found two exhausted jet skiers. They were in the sea, swimming back to shore attempting to tow their jet skis.

One jet skier realised that he was running low on fuel had started to return to the harbour when he did in fact run out of fuel. The second jet skier attempted to tow the empty jet ski back to the harbour but in doing so, fouled his impellor on the tow rope.

With both jet skis disabled, the two casualties decided to try to swim back to the harbour, towing the jet skis. They soon discovered this was a more challenging task than they expected. They were tiring and unable to make headway. Equipped with the correct safety equipment they then fired distress flares to attract attention.

The D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, picked up the two chaps and took the jet skis in tow, returning them safely to the harbour.

Despite three flares being fired, only one 999 call was made. If members of the public see anything that gives them cause to believe someone may be in trouble they should always dial 999. The RNLI and other emergency services would rather respond to a false alarm with good intent that have someone lose their life.

Any sighting of a flare at sea or on the shore line should be reported to Falmouth Coastguards who will invoke the necessary response

Thursday 15 July 2010

Newquay RNLI lifeboats launch twice in one hour

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched twice in one hour on Thursday 15th July 2010. The first to an empty surfboard, the second to two missing swimmers.

At 21:00 hrs Falmouth coastguards received a 999 call form a member of the public saying they had seen an empty surfboard drifting out to sea in the vicinity of Great Western beach. Concerned its surfer was in difficulties they tasked Newquay’s inshore lifeboats.

With the light fading fast both of Newquay’s lifeboats launched with Joe Emmett and Ian Jepson at the helms. The D class lifeboat was tasked to search the back of the surf line and the Atlantic 85 lifeboat was sent to investigate an object off Fly cellars. The object seen off Fly cellars was in fact a mooring buoy.

After a thorough search nothing was found. Newquay Coastguard cliff rescue team had also been informed that a member of the public had lost a body beard off Towan beach and the owner was safe and well. The lifeboats were stood down and returned to station.

Less than 10 minutes after leaving the station the crew were once again paged. A member of the public had seen two swimmers in difficulties between Towan and Great Western beaches.

Again both lifeboats carried out an extensive search of the area. Newquay coastguard cliff rescue team had spotted two body boarders coming off Towan beach. Having established that these two had been surfing in the reported area, the coastguards were confident that these were the people reported as the missing swimmers.

The lifeboats were stood down and the crew headed home to bed at 22:30 hrs.

Tuesday 14 July 2010

Newquay RNLI lifeboat rescues people cut off by the tide

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched at 18:10 hrs on Tuesday 13th July following reports of eight people cut off by the tide.

Falmouth coastguards tasked Newquay’s inshore lifeboats following reports of eight people cut off by the tide at a small cove between Great Western and Towan Beaches. The group of eight teenagers from Oxford were trapped on a small area of sand with a rapidly rising tide.

Joe Emmett at the helm of the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, manoeuvred the lifeboat in to the small area of beach, took four of the teenagers aboard and transferred them to the Atlantic 85 lifeboat. Joe and his volunteer crew then returned for the remaining four people and then all eight were taken back to the safety of the harbour.

People are always advised to check the tide times before venturing to secluded parts of the beaches.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats have rescued 25 people in 25 days.

Saturday 12 July 2010

Newquay RNLI lifeboat rescue people cut off by the tide

Newquay RNLI’s D class lifeboat was diverted from exercise on Saturday 10th July 2010 to assist two people cut off by the tide at Bedruthan Steps.

Ian Jepson, Michael Martin and Ben Eglington were already out on exercise when Falmouth coastguards diverted the lifeboat to Bedruthan Steps. Two people were cut off by the tide.

The volunteer crew, managed to reach the casualties and get then aboard the lifeboat. They were then taken to the safety of Mawgan Porth beach.

Friday 11 July 2020

Crew muster at 22:00 hrs but stood down before launch

Thursday 8 July 2010

RNLI lifeboat launch to rescue injured coasteerer in Newquay

Newquay’s volunteer RNLI lifeboat crew were tasked this Thursday 8 July to assist coastguard and paramedic crews recover a coasteerer who had suspected head, neck and leg injuries.

The D class lifeboat, helmed by volunteer Joe Emmett launched at 3.20pm to Hedge Cove on the Gazzle, a small bay between the old lifeboat station and Huers Hut. When they arrived paramedics were in attendance and giving first aid treatment to a 15-year-old female casualty who had fallen 10 metres whilst taking part in a coasteering activity.

Due to the height of her fall she was treated for suspected head and neck injuries as well as a possible broken leg. The limited accessibility of the small cove, which is reached via a steep path, meant that it was decided to transfer her to a more assessable location in the lifeboat.

The coastguard helped carry the casualty who was on the paramedic’s stretcher and put her on the RNLI’s basket stretcher, so that she could be transferred to the lifeboat. The volunteer crew took her round the headland to Newquay harbour where a land ambulance was waiting. She was taken to Treliske hospital for further treatment.

Wednesday 7 July 2010

Newquay RNLI lifeboats search for missing person.

Newquay's inshore lifeboats launched at 15:40 hrs to help search for a person missing off Pentire Headland.

A vulnerable female had been missing since early morning and the police had found some belongings on Pentire headland.

An extensive search involving lifeboats, lifeguards, R193, coastguards and police was carried out. At about 21:00 hrs all were stood down with nothing found.

Friday 2nd July 2010

Newquay RNLI tow fishing boat to safety.

Newquay’s Atlantic 85 lifeboats launched at 08:30 hrs on Friday 2nd July 2010 to assist a broken down fishing vessel 4.5 miles off Towan head.

Good Intent, an 8.5 meter local fishing boat had a broken oil pipe and was unable to make way. They contacted Falmouth Coastguards and requested assistance.

Newquay’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat launched with Christian Brown at the helm. Arriving on scene the crew were unable to effect a repair so the boat and its two crew were towed back to Newquay Harbour.

With a quiet start to the year, Newquay’s lifeboats have now rescued 14 people in the last 6 days.

Thursday 1st July 2010

Newquay RNLI lifeboats rescue nine kayakers.

Newquay’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, launched at 15:00 hrs on Thursday 1st July following reports of two kayakers in difficulties off Towan head.

Falmouth coastguards received two 999 calls, one from a member of the public one from a boat, reporting that two kayakers appeared to be in difficulties. Newquay’s lifeboat was asked to check to see if they required assistance.

Newquay’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, launched with Christian Brown at the helm. Due to the low tide, the lifeboat launched from Towan Beach. Arriving on scene the lifeboat volunteers discovered that there were in fact nine kayakers approximately three quarters of a mile of the headland.

One kayaker was in the sea. He was unable to stay on his kayak and had been able to do so for about an hour. He was cold and exhausted. Another of the group was sea sick and a third female party member was very cold and anxious.

Christian and his crew took the three kayakers aboard the lifeboat and transported them and their kayaks back to the shore where they were met by the lifeboats shore crew. With the tide out, the lifeboat was unable return to the harbour so the casualties were put ashore on the beach. The hypothermic lady was carried ashore by her partner and launcher Graham Mountford who waded out to assist.

The lifeboat crew then returned to the remaining six kayakers who were still afloat. They were not confident they could make the journey back to the shore; they had been unaware how far out they had paddled out aided by the ebbing tide. The lifeboat crew decided the easiest option was to transport the six back to shore on the lifeboat.

With four crew, six casualties and six kayaks on board, the Gladys Mildred made her journey back to shore heavily laden! The casualties were dropped off on Fly Cellars, a safe landing area just outside the harbour. The lifeboat and kayaks then returned to Towan beach where the kayaks were off loaded and the lifeboat recovered.

The group of six holiday makers had hired the kayaks from a local rental outlet. They were equipped with all the correct safety equipment. They had been caught unawares by the ebbing tide and the prevailing wind conditions, not realising how far from their start point. They had been on the verge of contacting the Coastguards when the lifeboat arrived.

Sunday 27th June 2010

Newquay RNLI save three swimmer’s lives.

Newquay’s volunteer lifeboat crew saved three lives on Sunday 27th June 2010. Already involved in a search for a missing swimmer off Fistral beach the lifeboats were diverted to three people caught in a rip off Porth beach.

At 20:24 hrs on Sunday 27th Falmouth coastguards received a 999 call from a member of the public reporting that three swimmers were caught in the river current on Porth beach and were being rapidly pulled our to sea.

Already on the water the inshore lifeboats were able to be on scene within four minutes of the 999 call. Despite the rapid response, the casualties were already in great danger barely able to keep their heads above water.

Seeing the casualties were in great distress volunteer crew members Michael Martin, Ian Jepson and Tim Poole jumped into the water and each supported a casualty. Joe Emmett at the helm of the D Class lifeboat then collected the three casualties and transferred them to shore.

The lifeboats then rejoined the search for the missing swimmer on Fistral beach. The lifeboats initially launched at 16:45 hrs and were stood down at 21:20 hrs

The three had been paddling knee deep in the sea when they inadvertently strayed into the river area. Plunged into waist deep water they were swept along the river out to sea and into danger.

Several of Newquay's beaches have rivers running across them. People should always be aware that beach rivers or streams can have steep sides easily disguised by the sea.

Sunday 27th June 2010

RNLI lifeguards and lifeboat crews in search for missing surfer at Fistral

RNLI lifeguards on Fistral beach, and the volunteer lifeboat crews from Newquay RNLI lifeboat station, are taking part in a major search for a missing surfer, who has gone missing after getting into difficulties in the water at Fistral beach this afternoon.

At around 16.45, a man and woman, who had been surfing in heavy surf conditions at Fistral beach, were spotted struggling in the water by a fellow surfer. The surfer made his way towards them to help, and was able to reach the woman and begin assisting her to shore, but the man had disappeared in the rough surf.

RNLI lifeguards immediately responded and helped the surfer bring the woman safely ashore, then headed straight back out with rescue boards and a rescue water craft (jet-ski) to try and find the man who had gone missing.

With no sight of him, the lifeguards contacted Falmouth Coastguard to request assistance. Search and Rescue assets including two RNLI lifeboats from Newquay, RNLI lifeguards from Towan beach, and RNAS Culdrose, were tasked to assist. Several other vessels in the area have also joined the search.

The woman who was pulled from the surf was given first aid on the beach and has been transferred to hospital.

Steve Instance, RNLI Lifeguard Inspector, says:
We are obviously very concerned for the missing man, as it has been several hours now since he disappeared in the water. There has been a large swell at Fistral today, and the conditions have been rough – this can be very appealing to surfers, but can quickly be overpowering. There is an extensive search underway and we sincerely hope for a positive outcome but conditions will become more difficult as we start to lose the daylight.’

Update: Coastguards carried out a low water search just after midnight - nothing found

Update: RNLI lifeguards and Coastguards carried out a low water search at 13:00 hrs Monday 28th June 2010 and were stood down at 15:00 hrs. There will be no further searches.

Wednesday 23 June 2010

Newquay RNLI in action as lifeboat crew and lifeguards rescue injured coasteerer

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats and lifeguards worked seamlessly together on Tuesday 22nd June 2010 to rescue an injured coasteerer off Whipsiderry beach in Newquay.

The incident occurred just after 4pm. A female coasteerer had been taking part in an organised coasteering party when a jump went awry off Porth Island, near Whipsiderry beach. She landed badly and immediately complained of lower back pain and a tingling sensation.

RNLI lifeguard, Rod McDonald responded from neighbouring Porth beach on a rescue board at the same time as RNLI lifeguards Ian Aldis and John Steedman set off from Watergate beach on the other side of Whipsiderry on the Rescue Water Craft (RWC). Rod was able to quickly assist the coasteering instructor to move the casualty to a safe position away from the danger of the rocks, approximately 30 yards offshore, while John and Ian requested backup. Rod, the instructor and a couple of the coasteering party then immobilised her in the water using Rod’s rescue board.

Both Newquay’s RNLI inshore lifeboats were tasked by Falmouth coastguards and launched at 4.15pm with Ian Jepson and Joe Emmett at the helms. Arriving on scene, the volunteer crew soon assessed that the casualty was in a safe position out of immediate danger.

Volunteer RNLI crewmember and full time paramedic Ashley Mann, who had been tasked to respond in a land ambulance, had scrambled over the rocks to get nearer to the casualty. Volunteer helmsman Joe Emmett spotted Ashley and picked him up off the rocks so he could assist with the transfer to the stretcher. With crewmember and paramedic Christian Brown already aboard, the lifeboat was now equipped with two paramedics and swiftly returned to the injured coasteerer.

Having assessed the casualty as being stable the lifeboat crew and lifeguards proceeded to transfer the casualty to the lifeboat’s basket stretcher. This was achieved by submerging the stretcher below her and allowing it to float up under her, scooping her gently into the stretcher.

Once safely immobilised in the stretcher, she was then taken to Porth beach in the lifeboat where both lifeboat crews assisted by the RNLI lifeguards transferred her into lifeguards’ patrol vehicle which transported her up the beach to the waiting Cornwall Air Ambulance in a near by car park. She was flown to the Royal Cornwall Hospital for assessment and treatment.

Christian Brown volunteer RNLI lifeboat crew and paramedic says:

‘The lifeguards and instructor did an excellent job of immobilising her. Using the rescue board they put their arms under her and their bodies against her bracing her in a really secure position until we were able to transfer her to the stretcher.’

This was the first shout for trainee lifeboat crewmember Tim Poole.

Wednesday 19th May 2010

Newquay RNLI lifeboat rescues ungrateful badger.

Newquay RNLI lifeboat launched at 09:40 hrs this morning (Wednesday 19th May 2010) to assist the RSPCA in rescuing a stranded badger.

Newquay RNLI lifeboat operations manager, Gareth Horner, received an unusual request for help this morning. RSPCA inspector Felicity Cross asked if Newquay lifeboat would launch to help rescue a stranded badger at Porth beach.

The unfortunate animal has become trapped on rocks and with a swiftly rising tide was in danger of a watery end. Whilst the RNLI’s role is saving human lives at sea not animals, Gareth felt this was an excellent training opportunity so the D class lifeboat was launched with Joe Emmett at the helm.

The volunteer crew picked up the RSPCA inspector from Porth beach and took her to the rocky ledge where the hapless animal was trapped. Confronted by a bright orange lifeboat the badger became a bit fractious. Armed with a cage, collaring pole and thick gloves Felicity soon trapped the animal and put him in the cage. They were then taken back ashore by the lifeboat to the safety of the beach.

Volunteer helmsman Joe Emmett says this was a first for him:

“We’ve rescued dogs before, also the odd dead cow or sheep that were shipping hazards, never a badger. The badger wasn’t very happy, didn’t seem to be a fan of the RNLI nor appreciate our services! Once the RSCPA had him in the cage he settled down and was as quiet as a lamb.”

The badger appeared unhurt so it is thought it beach trapped after strolling on the beach rather than falling off the cliffs.

Newquay RNLI advise people to seek local knowledge and check tide times before walking on beaches but we are at a bit of a loss how to advise the badger community!

Monday 17th May 2010

Newquay RNLI lifeboat rescues fishing boat.

Newquay RNLI lifeboat launched at 08:40 hrs this morning following reports if a broken down fishing vessel 5 miles off Towan head.

The 24ft fishing vessel Quantus had suffered gear box failure and was unable to make way. Realising a repair was not an option the skipper contacted Falmouth coastguard requesting assistance.

Newquay’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, launched with Joe Emmett at the helm. With only one person on board the casualty, volunteer crewmember Mark Morris went aboard the casualty for the tow back to the harbour.

The boat was towed to the safety of newquay harbour and placed on her mooring to await repair.

Ian Jepson, skipper of the casualty and volunteer crew member cheekily comments on the rescue:

“My old boat broke down in the same position on her maiden voyage and was towed back in by the lifeboat, she was a lovely boat and gave me many years of safe sailing. Hopefully this one breaking down in the same position is a good omen.”

Picture Gallery here

15th May 2010

Newquay RNLI Lifeboats search for people cut off by the tide

Newquay RNLI lifeboats launched at 17:10 hrs on Saturday 15th May following 999 calls reporting someone may be cut off by the tide.

A member of the public had seen some people descend the steps at Bedruthan steps but had not seen them return. When the area the group had headed towards was subsequently cut off by the tide the members of the public called the Coastguard and informed the of the situation.

Newquay’s inshore lifeboats launched and searched the area but no one was found. With all safe and well the lifeboats returned to station.

A false alarm with good intent.

Saturday 1st May 2010

Newquay RNLI lifeboat responds to May Day call.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboat launched at 19:10 hrs on Saturday 1st May 2010 to assist a speed boat with electrical problems

Falmouth Coastguards received a “May Day” call from Blaze a broken-down four metre rib. The boat’s electrical systems had failed and they were unable to restart their engine. They were approximately 400m off Mawgan Porth beach.

Newquay’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat Gladys Mildred launched with Ian Jepson at the helm. Whilst the volunteer crew were in transit to the scene they were advised that the rib had managed to restart their engine.

As the lifeboat arrived on scene it was quickly evident that the rib’s engine had failed again.

For safety Ian transferred the three people from the broken down boat onto the lifeboat and then took the rib in tow back to the harbour.

Crew: Ian Jepson (helm), Mike Martin, Matt Robins, Duncan Wallace

Shore crew: Wayne Martin, Graham Mountford, Laurence Pascoe, Kevin Walsh

Friday 30th April 2010

Newquay RNLI lifeboats assist lift fall rescue

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboat launched at 18:35 hrs on Friday 30th April 2010 following reports of one person trapped in a hotel beach lift.

Six people were in the Hotel Victoria’s lift when it fell from the first floor to the lower ground, beach level, trapping the occupants With the tide at full height the only access route to the external lift steps on Great western beach was via the sea. Newquay fire brigade needed to get firemen and rescue equipment to the lift.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched at 18:35 hrs with Joe Emmett and Ben Eglington at the helms. They were tasked with transporting six firemen, a paramedic and rescue equipment to the lift’s access steps. There was a 3 ft breaking sea and no beach to land on.

In numerous runs Joe transported the firemen, paramedics and equipment in the D class lifeboat from the bottom of Trebarwith steps to the lift steps. With all necessary rescue personnel at the lift Joe and his crew then had the difficult task of holding the lifeboat steady in the breaking surf whilst the Fire Brigade set about rescuing the trapped casualties. Newquay’s Atlantic lifeboat stood by behind the surf line ready to transport any casualties as they were released. Newquay Coastguard Cliff rescue team were also on scene and acted as a radio relay between the lifeboat crews and the firemen.

Once the firemen had gained access to the trapped men, five uninjured were taken by the D class lifeboat to the awaiting Atlantic lifeboat. They were then transferred back to the harbour. They had already been assessed by the paramedic and firemen on scene and after a quick check by ambulance crew at the harbour were released.

The sixth man had suffered a leg injury. He was put on the lifeboat’s stretcher and then, accompanied by the paramedic, was taken in the D class lifeboat directly back to the harbour. He was then transferred by land ambulance to the Royal Cornwall Hospital for further medical treatment.

Both lifeboats then returned to the lift shaft to shuttle the fire crew and their equipment back to safety of the harbour.

Sean Taylor, station manager for Newquay fire station commends the smooth running of the rescue:

“This is an excellent example of multiagency team work. The fire men, lifeboat crews, coastguards, paramedics and police all worked seamlessly together.”

The rescue involved two RNLI lifeboats, four fire appliances (Newquay x 2, St Columb & Perranporth), Fire Water Rescue teams from Falmouth and St Austell, Fire specialist tenders from Bodmin & Camborne and a fire command vehicle from Truro. These teams were joined by Newquay Coastguard cliff rescue team, ambulance crews and police.

Friday 16th April 2010

Newquay RNLI lifeboats assist swimmers cut off by the tide.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboat launched at 17:00 hrs on Friday 16th April 2010 following reports of four teenagers cut off by the tide.

Falmouth coastguards received a 999 call from a member of the public who had spotted four people cut off by the tide between Towan Island and Great Western beach, Newquay.

Newquay’s Atlantic and D class lifeboat launched with Christian Brown at the helm. Arriving on scene Falmouth Coastguard directed the lifeboat to Lamorna Cove (Newquay), Christian and his volunteer crew picked up four local teenagers aged between 14 and 16 yrars and took them back to the safety of Tolcarne beach.

The group had been swimming and not noticed that the tide had come in. On returning to their belongings they realised they had no safe exit from Lamorna cove back to Tolcarne beach.

Members of the publics are always advised to check time tides and seek local advice before walking along the beaches. Many coves become quickly inaccessible with the fast rising tides.

Monday 5th April 2010

Newquay RNLI lifeboats assist investigate abandoned pushchair

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched at 21:05hrs on Monday 5th April 2010 to search following the discovery of clothes and a pushchair near Towan headland.

Newquay Cliff rescue team and Newquay Police were tasked to investigate the discovery of abandoned clothing, a pushchair and a toddler’s shoes on gully off Towan headland. Realising the potential casualties could be in the water they requested the assistance of Newquay’s inshore RNLI lifeboats. R169 from RAF Chivenor and R193 from RNAS Culdrose were also tasked.

The Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, and the D class lifeboat launched with volunteers Joe Emmett and Ian Jepson at the helms. They were tasked with searching from Newquay Harbour to High Place, just east of Towan headland.

As the shout was taking place, Gareth Horner, Newquay RNLI lifeboat operations manager described the treacherous sea conditions:

“There is a tremendous ground sea running, the helmsmen won’t want to take the boats around the headland unless they absolutely have to”

All the rescue teams involved carried out an extensive search in the Gazzle but nothing was found. With no reports of anyone missing in the area the volunteer lifeboat crew were stood down by Falmouth Coastguards at 22:30 hrs and returned to station.

Wind: SW Force 6, heavy ground sea

Atlantic Crew: Joe Emmett (helm), Ashley Mann, Matt Robins, Tim Stokes
D Class crew: Ian Jepson (helm), Mike Martin, Duncan Wallace

Sunday 28th March 2010

Newquay RNLI lifeboats assist couple cut off by the tide.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboat launched at 13:10 hrs on Saturday 27th March 2010 following reports of two adults cut off by the tide.

Falmouth coastguards received a 999 call from a member of the public who had spotted a pair of holiday makers cut off by the tide at Lamorna Cove, Newquay. With high tide another 3 hours away, Falmouth Coastguards tasked Newquay’s inshore lifeboats to assist. R193 from RNAS Culdrose was on exercise I the area and also diverted to the scene.

Newquay’s Atlantic and D class lifeboats launched with Ross King and Christian Brown at the helms. Arriving on scene, it was decided that the best option was for R193 to winch the couple up onto the Barrowfields. The inshore lifeboat stood by until this was safely completed and then returned to station.

Members of the publics are always advised to check time tides and seek local advice before walking along the beaches. Many coves become quickly inaccessible with the fast rising tides.

Wednesday 24th March 2010

Newquay RNLI lifeboats rescue stranded pair

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboat launched at 16:10 hrs on Wednesday 24th March 2010 following reports of two adults stranded on rocks.

Falmouth coastguards received a 999 call reporting two people and a dog were stranded on rocks at Mawgan Porth. One of the pair had gone into the sea to rescue their dog who was in difficulties in the surf. The casualty had been swept off his feet so a passer by then went in to help him. The second casualty get them both onto rocks but the pair were then unable to make their way back to shore due to a heavy rip current.

Newquay’s inshore D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, launched with Ross King at the helm. Ross and his crew swiftly plucked the two from the rocks and transferred them to the beach where they were helped by Newquay coastguard cliff rescue team and assessed by paramedics.

The pair had been in the water and on the rocks for over 45 minutes and were very cold but otherwise well.

Wednesday 27th January

Newquay RNLI rescue two runners outrun by the tide.

Newquay’s RNLI inshore lifeboats launched at 12:45 hrs on Wednesday 27th January 2010 following reports of two people cut off by the tide on Whipsiderry beach.

Falmouth coastguards received a 999 call from a member of the public reporting two adult males trapped on the rocks at Fern cove, Whipsiderry beach. The two joggers had run from Porth beach to the north end of Watergate bay and were making their way back when they were caught out by the incoming tide. Newquay’s lifeboat operation manager, Gareth Horner was then advised that there were three casualties, the third being a surfer who had paddled around to assist. The surfer, Craig Sommerville had a better view of the shoreline from the water and he had guided the casualties to a safer place on the rocks.

Newquay’s D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson launched with Mark Morris at the helm accompanied by Richard Martin and Aaron Trebilcock. Christian Brown took the helm of the Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, with volunteer crew members Ian Jepson, and Kevin Walsh on board.

Arriving on scene Mark quickly located the casualties on rocks at the end of a gully. With a two metre heavy surf running into the boulder strewn gully, access for the lifeboat was extremely difficult. Newquay’s coast guard cliff rescue team were unable too reach the casualties from the cliff top at that time. The helmsman’s opinion was that the best option for evacuation was by helicopter.

Realising the lifeboat would have difficulties reaching them the casualties leapt into the sea to try to reach the lifeboat. Assessing they were in a perilous situation Mark reacted quickly, manoeuvring the lifeboat in as close as he could whilst his two volunteer crew jumped over board to help.

At times out of their depth and struggling for footholds, Richard Martin fought the surf to hold the lifeboat still in a safe position whilst Aaron Trebilcock attempted to make his way to the casualties. The floor of the gully was littered with loose rocks and boulders making Aaron’s progress very difficult. On reaching the casualties, Aaron then slowly made his way back out of the gulley to the lifeboat with each casualty in turn. Due to their severe hypothermic state he had to drag them through the powerful surf surges, himself often being knocked backwards onto the rocks. The third person, a surfer was not in difficulties but had remained with the two runners in case things took a turn for the worse.

When they reached the lifeboat both of the casualties were in a bad state, neither able to help themselves into the safety of the boat. Once the crew had assisted the exhausted, hypothermic men aboard and got back into the boat themselves, Mark skillfully manoeuvred the D class lifeboat back out through the surf to the waiting Atlantic lifeboat. This was an arduous task, the boat was now heavy with five people aboard. The lifeboat filled with water as the first two waves broke over the boat. This made the handling of the lifeboat more difficult, especially as they hit the bigger swell outside the gully. Helmsman Mark Morris used his skill and training, constantly assessing the sea and successfully punched through eight to ten waves before breaking free of the surf.

The casualties were transferred aboard the Atlantic lifeboat and taken back to the lifeboat station. The D class lifeboat ensured that Mr Sommerville had safely left the scene before returning to the station.

The casualties had warm showers, hot drinks and were seen by paramedics. They had been cut off for about two hours and as well as being hypothermic and exhausted the two had suffered lacerations to their legs.

Gareth Horner, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Newquay says:

“The D class crew all did a first class job in very difficult conditions, had they not got these chaps out when they did the outcome may have been very different”

1st January 2010

Newquay RNLI lifeboats launch into the New Year

The first shout of the year came on New Year’s Day. Newquay’s lifeboats were requested to launch at 15:20 hrs on Friday 1st January 2010 following reports of 4 persons cut off by the tide between Whipsiderry and Watergate Bay

Falmouth coastguards received a 999 call from one of the group who were trapped on rocks under Miner’s Point just south of Watergate. With the tide rising they climbed to a safe point above the waterline and raised the alarm.

Newquay’s Atlantic and D class lifeboats launched with Ian Jepson and Christian Brown at the helms.

The four teenagers had been walking from Watergate to Whipsiderry and had been caught out by the rising tide. Realising they were in difficulties they had done the sensible thing, found a safe position and asked for help.

Christian took the D class lifeboat into the rocks, transferred the casualties one by one to the Atlantic lifeboat where they were then taken back to the lifeboat station to warm up before making their way home.

Gareth Horner, lifeboat operations manager says:

“It is always prudent to check tide times before walking along the beaches. However, these lads did the right thing, got themselves into a safe position, sat tight and waited for help”

D class crew: Christian Brown (helm), Garry Griffiths, Mark Morris
Atlantic crew: Ian Jepson (helm), Richard Martin, Andrew Trebilcock, Aaron Trebilcock

30th December 2009

Newquay RNLI lifeboats end quiet period with a double shout

Following a lull of nearly 8 weeks Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched at 13:15 hrs on Thursday 30th December 2009 following reports of a walker cut off by the tide. As the lifeboats were on their way to the first incident a second call for help came to assist a surfer stranded on the rocks.

Falmouth coastguards received a 999 call from a concerned member of the public who had spotted someone stranded on the rocks at the north end of Watergate. With the tide rising they called the coastguards and raised the alarm.

Newquay’s Atlantic and D class lifeboats launched with Christian Brown and Ben Eglinton at the helms. Arriving on scene the lifeboats and Newquay cliff rescue team searched the area.

After a short while the cliff rescue team spotted lady and her dog about 30ft up the cliff. At this point the Atlantic lifeboat was diverted to a secpnd incident and the D class lifeboat remained on scene. Volunteer helmsman Ben Eglinton managed to manoeuvere the D lcass lifebpoat in close enough to the shore to put a crew member ashore. The lady wished to remain where she was and continue with her picnic. Having ensured she was safe and well the lifeboat was released to return to station.

The Atlantic lifeboat had been diverted to Mawgan Porth. Falmouth coastguards had received another 999 call; reports of a surfer in difficulties and stuck on rocks. As the lifeboat arrived, the casualty had managed to get off the rocks and rejoin the group.

The lifeboats returned to station.

D class crew: Ben Eglinton (helm), Aaron Trebilcock, Duncan Wallace
Altantic crew: Christian Brown (helm), James Dunn, Ian Jepson, Ross King

Friday 6th November 2009

Newquay RNLI lifeboats launch to missing walker

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched at 16:59 hrs on Friday 6th November 2009 following reports of an overdue walker walking between Watergate Bay and Whipsiderry beach.

Falmouth coastguards received a 999 call form a concerned member of the public. Her 52 year old husband had gone walking along the beach between Watergate and Whipsiderry but had not returned by the prearranged time. With darkness falling and the tide rising she had become concerned for his safety and requested the assistance of the emergency services. .

Falmouth coastguard tasked the Newquay inshore RNLI lifeboats, Newquay cliff rescue team and R193 helicopter from Culdrose.

At approximately 17:50 hrs R193 spotted the gentleman on a rocky outcrop about 400m south of Watergate Bay hotel. He was trapped by the incoming tide but had managed to scramble onto some rocks just above the rising sea. Padstow RNLI all weather lifeboat was also tasked just before the casualty was found and arrived on scene at about 17:55 hrs.

The 2m swell, heavy winds and the location of the casualty made it difficult for the small and nimble D class lifeboat to get to the casualty. R193 was unable to get low and close enough to lift the chap as he was at the bottom of 240 ft tall cliffs. It was decided that the coastguard cliff rescue team would attempt to lift him up the cliff face.

With three lifeboats and R193 helicopter standing by the coastguard cliff rescue team winched the casualty up the cliff face to safety. At 19:20 hrs, nearly two and a half hours after he was first reported missing, the gentleman was safely at the top of the cliff. He was cold and wet but otherwise well.

Geoff Brown, deputy launching authority for Newquay RNLI lifeboat advises caution when walking and exploring:

“It is always advisable to check the tide times; it is safer to explore on a falling tide. Always tell some one where you are going and what time you will be back, thankfully this chap had done just that and told his wife when he would be back. She quickly raised the alarm.”

D class crew: Joe Emmett (helm), Duncan Wallace, Andrew Trebilcock
Atlantic crew: Christian Brown (helm), Daniel Gilbert, Aaron Trebilcock, Tim Stokes.

29 October 2009

Newquay RNLI join other emergency services to assist distressed man

Newquay RNLI’s two inshore lifeboats have today (Thursday 29 October) been involved in a joint service operation to assist a distressed man who had been missing since the early hours of the morning. The charity’s volunteer lifeboat crews stood by when the man was climbing on rocks and when he entered the water, and also assisted in transferring police during the incident.

First to launch today was the Newquay D class inshore lifeboat Valerie Wilson tasked at lunchtime by the coastguard to ascertain the position of the casualty who was on rocks just south of Kelsey Point. After swimming toward the volunteer lifeboat crew, the man changed his mind and headed back the cliffs.

Half an hour later, the relief Newquay Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat Mary Lewis was also launched, this time to assist in the transfer of two marine-trained police officers.

It was local coastguards who managed to succeed in guiding the man to the top of the cliff where police met him.

Gareth Horner, RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager at Newquay, says it was the close working of the various services that ensured a successful operation:

‘The RNLI and some of the other agencies involved today, often train together and it is in preparation for occasions such as this. The volunteer crews were able to provide assistance and the upshot is that the man is now safe.

The six volunteer crew and many of the shorehelpers who are involved in launching and recovering the lifeboats, had to leave their places of work to respond and I thank them and their employers for their dedication and support.’

The D class crew volunteers included Ross King (Helm), Tim Stokes and Duncan Wallace.

The Atlantic 85 crew volunteers were Joe Emmett (Helm), Kev Walsh and Aaron Trebilcock.

Wednesday 16th September 2009

Newquay RNLI launch to yacht for the second time in a week.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboat launched at 16:35 hrs on Wednesday 16th September 2009 to a yacht ashore on rocks near Vugga cove at the west end of Crantock bay.

Falmouth coastguards received a 999 call from a member of the public reporting the yacht was going ashore onto rocks and an occupant had taken to the water in a one man inflatable fun dinghy.

Newquay’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat Gladys Mildred, launched with Ross King at the helm. Arriving on scene the volunteer crew realised that the vessel was the same 25ft leisure fishing boat that they had suffered engine failure less than a week previously. During the previous incident the casualty had lost his anchor and as such was unable to prevent his boat drifting onto the rocks when it got into difficulties this time.

Ross and his volunteer crew quickly established that the boat was empty and the only occupant was safely ashore. They then proceeded to search the area for any wreckage that may be hazardous to other sea users but none was found. Falmouth Coastguards released the lifeboat shortly after 17:00 hrs.

Crew: Ross King (helm), Tim Stokes, Aaron Trebilcock, Dan Gilbert

Thursday 10th September 2009

Newquay RNLI launches to boat with engine failure.

Newquay’s RNLI Atlantic 85 lifeboat launched at 20:15hrs on Thursday 10th September 2009 following a request for help from a broken down boat.

Falmouth coastguards received request fro help from a 25ft clinker boat. They had suffered engine failure and were unable to make way. They had managed to drop an anchor and were stuck in Crantock Bay.

The Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, and the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, launched with Christian Brown and Ross King at the helms.

Arriving on scene, Christian and his crew quickly towed the clinker back to the Gannel estuary on the high tide and secured her at her moorings.

Atlantic Crew: Christian Brown (helm), Aaron Trebilcock, Andrew Trebilcock, Dan Gilbert
D class crew: Ross king (helm), Tim Stokes, Duncan Wallace

Monday 7th September 2009

Newquay RNLI launches to boat in difficulties.

Newquay’s RNLI Atlantic 85 lifeboat launched at 20:15hrs on Monday 7th September 2009 following reports of a small boat in difficulties off Fistral beach..

Falmouth coastguards received a 999 call from a member of the public reporting an 8ft open fishing boat about 50 yds off the south end of Fistral beach and unable to make head way. They thought they had managed to secure a line to a crab pot buoy to prevent the boat being washed onto the rocks.

The Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, launched with volunteer helmsman, Mark Morris at the helm.

Arriving on scene, Mark and his crew quickly discovered that the sailing vessel was not in difficulties. He was using an anchor to help with tacking. Not realising that it was so late, and with darkness not far off the skipper gladly accepted a tow back to the harbour.

Crew: Mark Morris (helm), Dan Gilbert, Aaron Trebilcock, Matt Robins

Thursday 20th August 2009

Newquay RNLI’s rescues kayakers.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched at 20:15 hrs on Thursday 20th August 2009 following reports of a kayaker in difficulties in the Gannel estuary

Falmouth coastguards relieved a 999 call from a member of the public reporting a kayaker had capsized and was being swept out to sea on the ebbing tide. The teenage lad was kayaking with a friend.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched with Joe Emmett at the helm of the Atlantic 85 lifeboat and Christian Brown at the helm of the D class lifeboat.

The casualty was not wearing a buoyancy aid and was soon in serious difficulties. His friend, who was wearing a buoyancy aid, abandoned his kayak in Salt cove and swam to the stricken teenager. He then managed to get the casualty back onto the rocks at Salt cove and awaited rescue.

As the lifeboats arrived on scene, Christian Brown and his crew took the D class lifeboat through the surf and picked up the casualties. The Atlantic 85 lifeboat remained at the back of the 2-3m surf to ensure the D class lifeboat did not get into difficulties.

With one casualty suffering from hypothermia and cuts, the crew administered first aid and requested a transfer to hospital. Unable to find a suitable place to meet a land ambulance on the Gannel, the lads were taken to Crantock beach where they were transferred to the Royal Cornwall hospital by R193 from Culdrose.

Atlantic Crew: Joe Emmett (helm), Michael Martin, Aaron Trebilcock, Andrew Trebilcock

D Class Crew: Christian Brown (helm), Duncan Wallace, Tim Stokes

Monday, 17 August 2009

Newquay RNLI’s double dash.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched at 14:50 hrs on Friday 14th August 2009 to assist with rescuing three people who had fallen down the cliffs, once that task was complete they were then diverted to a missing cliff climber

Falmouth coastguards relieved a 999 call from a member of the public reporting three people having fallen part way down the cliffs. The trio were in Beacon cove, near Mawgan Porth. The cove is inaccessible from the sand. Newquay cliff rescue team were already on scene and in the process of lowering the casualties to the bottom of the cliffs for evacuation by the lifeboats.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched with Joe Emmett at the helm of the Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, and Ben Eglinton at the helm of the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson.

One casualty had suspected spinal injuries and was immobilised using the lifeboat’s spinal board. The coastguards and lifeboat volunteers then transferred two casualties to the Atlantic lifeboat where they were taken back to the harbour. They were met by a land ambulance and taken to the Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro. The third casualty was taken aboard the D class lifeboat where he was returned to the safety of Mawgan Porth beach.

Whilst the D class lifeboat was returning to station they were requested to respond to a missing cliff climber. A small group had been climbing the cliffs near Huer’s hut and had failed to appear at the top of the cliffs with the rest of the group. Ben and his D class crew immediately diverted and commenced searching the area. Joe and his Atlantic lifeboat crew joined the search once they had taken their casualties to the harbour.

After about 30 minutes, the volunteers were stood down, the missing 17 year old male had been found safe and well at his campsite.

Atlantic Crew: Joe Emmett (helm), Tim Stokes, Duncan Wallace
D class Crew: Ben Eglinton (helm) Aaron Trebilcock, Ross King

Sunday, 02 August 2009

Newquay RNLI launches to double tasking

Less than half an hour after recovering the lifeboat from the first shout of the day Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched again at 12:55 hrs on Sunday 2nd August 2009 to what turned out to be a double tasking.

Falmouth Coastguards received 999 calls almost simultaneously requesting help of Newquay’s volunteer crew. A sailing dinghy was in difficulties, capsized off Lusty Glaze and a male was missing in the area of Tolcarne beach.

A vulnerable male had been reported missing between Tolcarne and Lusty Glaze. Police, coastguards and Newquay RNLI had been tasked to search for the 37 year old.

Meanwhile one of a group of three sailing dinghies had got into difficulties off Lusty Glaze. Unable to right the boat the sailor had boarded one of the other boats.

Newquay’s D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, with Ben Eglinton at the helm took on the task of searching for the missing vulnerable male whilst the Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, with Kevin Gee at the helm towed the stricken sailing dinghy back to Newquay Harbour.

Once the volunteer crew and coastguards were happy the vulnerable male was not in difficulties in the sea, the lifeboat was stood down and the coastguards and police continued with the land search.

Atlantic Crew: Kevin Gee (helm), Michael Martin, Andrew Trebilcock, Joe Emmett
D Class Crew: Ben Eglinton (helm), Tim Stokes, Duncan Wallace.

Sunday, 02 August 2009

Newquay RNLI rescues rib

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboat launched at 11:30hrs on Sunday 2nd August 2009 following reports of a broken down boat 3 miles off Towan head.

Falmouth Coastguards received a 999 call for a 3m rib reporting complete electrical failure. They were unable to restart their engines and had lost use of their VHF radios. Thankfully they were within mobile telephone reception and dialled 999. Had they been outside the mobile reception they could have used their emergency flares.

The volunteer crew were just putting the Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, away in the boathouse after a morning’s training when the emergency call came. The lifeboat was immediately relaunched.

Arriving on scene the rib was taken in tow and taken to Newquay harbour where they would be able of repair the problem before returning to Padstow.

Crew: Ben Eglinton (helm), Michael Martin, Tim Stokes & Kevin Walsh

Monday 27th July 2009

Newquay RNLI launches to assist person in difficulties off Cribbar Rocks

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboat launched at 11:20 hrs on Monday 27th August 2009 following reports of person in difficulties off Towan head.

Falmouth coastguard tasked Newquay’s RNLI’s lifeboats; there was a person in the sea who was being helped by a coasteering instructor. Newquay’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat Gladys Mildred, launched with Joe Emmett at the helm.

Shortly after launching, Falmouth Coastguard stood the lifeboat down as both the casualty and the instructor had been rescued by a fishing vessel.

Joe and his crew thought it prudent to check the scene to ensure there were no other lives at risk. Happy that everyone was safe, well and accounted for the volunteer crew returned to station.

Crew: Joe Emmett, Ben Eglinton, Kevin Walsh

Wednesday, 22 July 2009

Newquay RNLI assists teenagers cut off by the tide.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats and lifeguards rescued three teenagers cut off by the tide at Whipsiderry at about 15:30 hrs on Wednesday 22nd July 2009

Lewis Timson, RNLI lifeguard based on Watergate beach was carrying out a routine tidal cut off patrol when he spotted three people in their early teens trapped on rocks at the north end of Whipsiderry. Taking his rescue water craft (RWC) in close he checked the teenagers were in a safe position and told then to stay there whilst he got assistance. He informed Falmouth Coastguards and returned to Watergate beach to pick up another lifeguard to help.

Falmouth Coastguard immediately tasked Newquay’s inshore lifeboats to assist with the rescue.

Newquay’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred and the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson launched with Kevin Gee and Ross King at the helms.

Arriving on scene, the teenagers were in a cove at the North end of Whipsiderry with two RNLI lifeguards and the RWC in attendance. Newquay’s Atlantic lifeboat stood off whilst Lewis transferred one male teenager back to the safety of Watergate beach. Kevin and the volunteer crew transferred the remaining male and female back to the beach in the D class lifeboat.

This weeks tides are spring tides; very high high water accompanied by very low low waters. This results in a very fast incoming tide that can easily catch people out. Members of the public are always advised to check tide times before exploring the coastline and beaches. Seek local advice, check with the lifeguards if you plan to explore hidden coves and always let someone know where you are going.

Wednesday, 22 July 2009

Newquay RNLI search for missing teenager.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched at 01:10 hrs on Wednesday 22nd July 2009 following reports of a missing teenage holidaymaker and cries of help from Great Western beach.

Falmouth coastguards received a 999 call reporting a 15 year old girl missing. She had told her family she was going swimming off Tolcarne Beach. Almost simultaneously the coastguards received several 999 calls from members of the public reporting that they had heard cries for help coming from Great Western Beach.

Newquay’s Atlantic 85 Lifeboat, Gladys Mildred and D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, launched with Kevin Gee and Ian Jepson at the helms. The volunteer crew were tasked to search from the eastern side of Great Western across to Towan Head.

At 01:26 hrs the missing teenager was found safe and well by the New1quay coastguard cliff rescue team. Approximately 10 minutes later, with nothing found at sea, the lifeboats were stood down. The police and coastguards concurred that the two reported incidents were one and the same, the cries for help probably being the parents calling for their daughter.

Members of the public are advised to always swim at a life guarded beach. If you do choose to swim at an unattended beach, seek local advice regarding tides and currents, it is always prudent to swim with a buddy.

Sunday 19th July 2009

Newquay RNLI lifeboats launch to father and son in difficulties.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched at 19:00 hrs on Sunday 19th July 2009 following reports of two people in difficulties in the water off Fistral Beach.

Falmouth Coastguards received a 999 call from a member of the public reporting two body boarders caught in a rip and members of the public entering the water to assist.

Newquay RNLI’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred and the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson launched with with Ben Eglinton and Ian Jepson at the helms.

Arriving on scene the volunteer crew quickly established that the two body boarders had been taken ashore by kite surfers who had been in the vicinity. Newquay Coastguard Cliff rescue team were already on scene and administering first aid.

The two casualties were a father and son who had been body boarding in 6ft surf had become caught in a rip tide and quickly dragged into difficulties.

In what has been described as a ‘vicious short wind sea with dumping waves’, Ian and his crew took the D class lifeboat through the surf onto the beach. Ian Jepson, then assisted the coastguards who was at that stage giving one of the casualties cardio pulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Second volunteer crew member, Duncan Wallace, helped manage the public on the beach before firing a smoke flare to aid the Culdrose rescue helicopter, RNAS R193, to land.

Ben and his crew stayed beyond the surf line searching the area ensuring there were no further casualties and everyone was ashore.

Christian Brown, RNLI crew volunteer and a paramedic, realising the gravity of the situation, took a spare first aid kit from the lifeboat station and drove overland to the scene. Using his paramedic and RNLI skills he assisted with the on scene first aid. He then travelled with the two casualties in the rescue helicopter to the Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro

With the casualties on their way to hospital, the D class crew volunteers then had the arduous task to get back to the open water, having to run the lifeboat along the surf line before heading out through the dumping waves. This was a tricky manoeuvre carried out successfully thanks to their continuous RNLI training which ensures the charity continues to provide a safe and professional lifesaving service.

Sadly the father was later pronounced dead and his teenage son was hospitalised.

Members of the public are always advised to swim at a lifeguarded beach. The RNLI provides a lifeguard service on over 140 beaches through out the UK, operating patrols 10:00 hrs to 18:00 hrs seven days a week through out the summer months. RNLI lifeboats provide lifesaving cover along the UK coastline 24/7 365 days a year. More information can be found on the Life First page of the RNLI website http://www.rnli-lifefirst.org.uk/

Atlantic crew: Ben Eglinton (helm), Michael Martin, Tim Stokes, Andrew Trebilcock

D Class crew: Ian Jepson (helm), Duncan Wallace, Daniel Gilbert

Saturday 11th July 2009

Newquay RNLI searches for missing male.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched at 16:20 on Saturday 11th July 2009 to search for a missing 20 year old male.

Newquay Police requested the assistance of Newquay’s inshore lifeboats after the clothes of a20 year old male were discovered at the back of North quay in the harbour.

The Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred and the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, launched with volunteer helmsmen Kevin Gee and Joe Emmett at the helms. The volunteers were tasked to search from Towan headland to Porth Island. Helicopter, R193 from Culdrose, police and coastguard cliff rescue teams also searched the area. RNLI lifeguards searched their patrolled beaches.

Despite an extensive and thorough search lasting over 90 minutes nothing was found and all were stood down shortly after 18:00 hrs.

Atlantic Crew : Kevin Gee (helm), Christian Brown, Duncan Wallace

D class Crew: Joe Emmett (helm), Aaron Trebilcock, Andrew Trebilcock

Wednesday 8 July 2009

Both Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched to assist in search for missing girl

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats Gladys Mildred and Valerie Wilson were launched at 18:19 hrs on Wednesday 8 July 2009 to assist in the police search for a 15-year-old girl who had been reported missing by her friends.

Falmouth Coastguard paged Newquay’s volunteer crew on request of the police to assist in the search for the girl who had not made contact with her friends for 24 hours. Both the inshore Atlantic 85 and D Class lifeboats were launched to search the shoreline from the north end of Fistral to Whipsiderry beach.

The volunteer crew on both lifeboats were stood down at 18.32 when the girl was found safe in the town.

Sunday, 05 July 2009

Newquay RNLI assists catamaran.

Newquay’s inshore Atlantic 85 lifeboat launched at 11:35 hrs on Sunday 5th July 2009 to assist a dismasted catamaran about ½ mile out to sea.

Newquay’s volunteer crew had just finished washing down the lifeboat after their morning’s exercise and were about to put the lifeboat back in the station when the call for help came.

With three of the crew still wearing their dry suits and safety kit the lifeboat was speedily relaunched with Christian Brown at the helm. Arriving on scene the damaged catamaran was taken in tow and brought back to the harbour.

Crew: Christian Brown (helm), Michael Martin, Tim Stokes, Sean Taylor

Wednesday 1st July 2009

Newquay RNLI help cliff fall casualty.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched at 11:55 hrs on Tuesday 30th June 2009 to assist with the rescue of a casualty who had fallen over a cliff.

Falmouth coastguards received a 999 call from a member of the public who had spotted someone on rocks at he bottom of a cliff in the Gazzle.

Newquay’s D class lifeboat launched with Christian Brown at the helm. Newquay cliff rescue team, paramedics and the police also responded to the incident.

Arriving on scene, volunteer helmsman and full time paramedic, Christian Brown assisted with first aid. Suspecting serious injuries, the casualty was placed on a spinal board and transferred to Royal Cornwall Hospital by helicopter for RAF Chivenor.

It is believed that the 16 year old male may have fallen the previous evening and lain there all night.

D Class Crew: Christian Brown (helm), Tim Stokes, Duncan Wallace

Friday 26 June 2009

Newquay RNLI assists two people cut off by the tide.

Newquay’s inshore lifeboat launched at 18:40hrs on Friday 26th June 2009 to assist the coastguard cliff recue team rescue two people half way up the cliff near Tolcarne beach.

The D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, helmed by Joe Emmett, swiftly launched and arrived on scene within two minutes. The coastguard cliff rescue team were already on the process of lifting one of the casualties up the cliff face and requested the lifeboat standby. Once the second casualty was safely at the top of the cliff the lifeboat returned to station

The casualties had realised they were cut off and started to scale the cliff face, hoping to reach safety. About halfway up they started to slip and realised they needed assistance.

People need to be aware of the tides when exploring the coves in Newquay bay. Coves are cut off in a very short space of time. If someone is cut off it is usually safer to stay at the base of the cliff until help arrives or the tide recedes, climbing the cliffs should be a last resort. For those exploring from a lifeguarded beach, the RNLI lifeguards will be able to advise on tide times and safe access to coves.

31 May 2009

Newquay RNLI’s early morning mission

At 01:43 hrs on Sunday 31st May 2009, Newquay RNLI’s volunteer crew were woken from their slumber to rescue a person in difficulties in the sea off Towan beach.

Falmouth Coastguards had received a 999 call reporting that a member of the public had taken a late night dip off Towan beach and was in difficulties.

With the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, in the water and the Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, just about to hit the water, the volunteer crew were stood down.

The casualty had managed to make his way ashore much to the relief of his friends.

Atlantic crew: Christian Brown (helm), Brian Adamson, Duncan Wallace
D Class crew: Ian Jepson (helm), Tim Stokes, Michael Martin

29 May 2009

Newquay RNLI launches for the second time to search for surfer.

Newquay RNLI’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, launched at 22:33 hrs on Friday 29th May to search for a possible surfer in difficulties.

Several 999 calls were received by Falmouth coastguard at about 22:30 hrs. Members of the public were concerned that they could see something in the sea off Tolcarne beach but were unsure if it was a surfer of just a floating object. Shortly before a surfer had been spotted in the area by the Police CCTV cameras.

Falmouth coastguards tasked Newquay RNLI ‘s Atlantic 85 lifeboat to search approximately one kilometre off Tolcarne beach. For the second time that day the volunteer crew launched the lifeboat.

A search of the area revealed nothing other than the Eastern mark buoy used by the rowers. Assured that no one was in difficulties, the lifeboat crew were stood down.

Crew: Joe Emmett (helm), Ian Jepson, Michael Martin, Tim Stokes.

29 May 2009 Newquay 09-016

Newquay RNLI urge caution in strong offshore winds

Newquay RNLI’s Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat Gladys Mildred was launched at 3.30pm Friday 29 May 2009 following reports of a person being washed out to sea from Poly Joke beach. The person managed to get back to shore before the volunteer crew of the lifeboat arrived, but the incident has prompted the RNLI to remind people of the dangers of offshore winds.

Initial reports suggested the person had washed out beyond the surf line and the lifeboat was launched with volunteer Ben Eglinton at the helm. In strong offshore winds gusting up to force five, the crew headed toward the beach but were called back when it was confirmed the person was safe.

Gareth Horner, RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager at Newquay, says the potential incident is a timely reminder to be careful in offshore conditions;

‘You can be drawn out to sea very quickly in a strong offshore wind, whether you are swimming or in a dinghy or on an inflatable toy. In these conditions it’s best to stay close to the waters edge and to visit a lifeguarded beach where there is plenty of advice available and a red and yellow flagged area in which to swim.’

The volunteer crew of the inshore lifeboat included Ben Eglinton (Helm), Joe Emmett, Duncan Wallace and Matt Robins.

09 May 2009

Newquay RNLI aids fishing vessel

Newquay RNLI’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, launched at 13:20 hrs on Saturday 9^th May to assist a fishing boat with fuel problems.

Fishing vessel, Tizzardlyon had suffered fuel filter problems 9 miles west of Towan headland and was unable to effect a repair. However, another fishing vessel, Loyal Partner, had an identical set of spare filters aboard.

Newquay RNLI’s lifeboat launched with Joe Emmet at the helm. They collected the spare filters from the Loyal Partner before heading out to the disabled Tizzardlyon. Arriving on scene the lifeboat stood by until they crew of the Tizzardlyon were happy the repair had been successful. The lifeboat then returned to station.

Crew: Joe Emmett (helm), Ben Eglinton, Dan Gilbert

17 April 2009 Newquay 009 2009

Newquay RNLI assists fishing vessel

Newquay’ RNLI’s lifeboats launched on Friday 17th April 2009 to assist a broken down fishing vessel in Newquay Bay.

At 16:50 hrs on Friday afternoon the fishing vessel Prah Nang reported that she had lost engine power and was adrift in Newquay Bay, 1 mile NNW of Park Head. They had identified the root of the problem as a split fuel line and managed to effect a repair. However, they had lost fuel and had insufficient fuel to return to the harbour.

Newquay’s RNLI Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, launched with Joe Emmett at the helm. Joe and his crew took spare fuel out to the disabled vessel and then escorted her back to the harbour.

This was Joe’s first shout as an Atlantic helmsman having successfully completed his competencies the day prior to the shout! Joe joined the crew in 1997, becoming a D-class helmsman in 2007.

Atlantic Crew: Joe Emmett (helm), Daniel Gilbert, Christian Brown, Ian Jepson

01 March 2009 Newquay 007 2008

Newquay RNLI searches for trapped walkers

Newquay’ RNLI’s lifeboats launched on Sunday 1st March 2009 following reports two groups of people cut off by the tide at Bedruthan Steps

At 14:50 hrs on Sunday afternoon a member of the public spotted two groups of people cut off by the tide at the north end of Bedruthan steps, just past Queen Bess rock. They duly notified the coastguard who then requested the assistance of the lifeboats.

Newquay’s lifeboats Gladys Mildred and Valerie Wilson launched with Ian Jepson and Joe Emmett at the helms. Despite and extensive search by the RNLI volunteers and the St Merryn Coastguard cliff rescue team nothing was found.

At 15:35 hrs, certain that no one was cut off, both the lifeboats and cliff rescue teams were stood down. A false alarm with good intent

Atlantic Crew: Ian Jepson (helm), Mike Martin, Matt Robins, Duncan Wallace
D class Crew: Joe Emmett (helm), Aaron Trebilcock, Dan Gilbert

12 February 2009

No need to panic!

Contrary to some reports, Newquay RNLI did not launch to assist in searching for someone off the Welsh coast!

However, New Quay lifeboat did. The media coverage resulted in a few phone calls asking if we really had gone that far.

29 January 2009 Newquay 004 2009

Newquay RNLI searches for surfer.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched at 10:35 hrs on Thursday 29h January 2009 to assist in searching for a possible missing surfer.

A member of the public had dialed 999 reporting that they had seen what appeared to be a surfer in difficulties off Polly Joke. Falmouth coastguards requested that Newquay’s lifeboats launch to assist the coastguard cliff rescue teams with the search.

With weather conditions close to the operational limits of the D class lifeboat and a forecast of SE 5-6 increasing 8-9 beyond the operational limits of both lifeboats the operations manager requested an on scene weather report from the coastguard cliff rescue teams on site. They reported a SE 5 with flat seas and heavy swell. The lifeboats launched.

With Christian Brown at the helm of the Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, and Ashley Mann at the helm of the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson the volunteer crews were tasked to search The Kelsey’s to Ligger point.

R193 from RNAS Culdrose was in the area on a training exercise and joined the search teams. With nothing found the search area was increased, tasking the volunteers to search from Towan head to Ligger point.

After 1½ hours of searching nothing was found. Several enthusiastic seals had assisted the lifeboat as the searched and it is thought that one of them may have have unwittingly been the suspected surfer that sparked the search.

A false alarm with good intent. Members of the public should always dial 999 if they believe that someone is in difficulties. We would rather have a false alarm than a tragedy.

Atlantic Crew: Christian Brown (helm), James Dunn, Daniel Gilbert, Matthew Robins
D class Crew: Ashley Mann (helm), Duncan Wallace, Tim Stokes

25 January 2009 Newquay 003 2008

Newquay RNLI D class dashes to dog in distress

Newquay RNLI’s D class lifeboat launched on Sunday 25th January 2009 following report of a dog in difficulties off Towan beach.

For the second time this year Newquay’s lifeboats launched to a pet in distress. Brixham Coastguards had received a 999 call form a member of the public reporting a dog and person in difficulties in the surf off Towan beach.

The D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, launched with Ben Eglington at the helm. Thankfully as the lifeboat arrived on scene the unfortunate canine and its owners were safely ashore and the lifeboat returned to station.

Pet owners are always advised to seek advice and assistance from coastguards before putting their own lives at risk attempting a cliff or sea rescue of their pets. The RNLI is a charity that saves lives at sea. The lifeboat will launch to rescue animals if the lifeboat launching authority and coastguards believe there is a risk that human life will be endangered if the coastguards and lifeboats don’t assist.

D Class Crew: Ben Eglinton (Helm), Duncan Wallace, Richard Martin

11 January 2009 Newquay 001 2008

Newquay RNLI launch to assist in rescuing a spaniel

Newquay RNLI’s first shout of 2009 was to assist in rescuing a spaniel who had taken a dangerous leap over cliffs on Towan headland.

At 12:40 hrs on Sunday 11th January 2009 Newquay’s Falmouth Coastguards received a 999 call from a very distressed owner reporting her spaniel had gone over the cliffs on Towan headland, near the old lifeboat slipway.

Concerned that the owner or another member of the public may try to rescue Newquay’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, and Newquay coastguard cliff rescue team were tasked.

Ben Eglinton took the helm of the Gladys Mildred and was soon on scene with his volunteer crew. The unlucky dog was trapped but safe inside Tea caverns. Ben quickly established that it was unable to safely manoeuvre the lifeboat in close enough to rescue the dog. It was decided that the safest plan of action was for the cliff rescue team to winch the dog to safety.

Whilst the cliff rescue team acquired the additional manpower needed for the recue, the Atlantic 85 lifeboat stood by in case circumstances changed. Once the cliff rescue team had lifted the dog to safety the lifeboat was released and returned to station.

Whilst the RNLI is a charity that saves lives at sea, they are usually human lives. However, there are times when the lifeboat will launch to rescue animals if the lifeboat launching authority and coastguards believe there is a risk that human life will be endangered if the coastguards and lifeboats don’t assist. Pet owners are always advised to seek advice and assistance from coastguards before putting their own lives at risk attempting a cliff or sea rescue of their pets.

Ironically Newquay RNLI’s first launch of 2008 was to a dog that got into difficulties on Whipsiderry beach that subsequently endangered its owners as they tried to rescue it. The third shout of 2007 was to a dead cow, once again not human but posing a danger to human as it was floating in a busy navigational area.

Crew: Ben Eglinton (helm), Aaron Trebilcock, Michael Martin, Rob Green.

27 December 2008 Newquay 031 2008

Newquay RNLI assists kayaker.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched on Saturday 27th December 2008 to assist a kayaker in difficulties off the south end of Fistral beach.

The kayaker was in a group of three making the most of the good weather after the festive break when he got into difficulties. When it looked like his fellow kayakers were unable to rescue him a member of the public dialled 999.

Falmouth Coastguards requested the assistance of the Newquay lifeboats. The Atlantic 85, Gladys Mildred, and the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson were launched at 09:50 hrs with Christian Brown and Kevin Gee at the helms.

As the lifeboats arrived on scene the casualty was in the process of being helped ashore by his fellow kayakers, his kayak was still adrift.

Kevin and his crew towed the kayak ashore. Once satisfied that the casualty was safe and well the lifeboats returned to station.

Atlantic Crew: Christian Brown (helm), Duncan Wallace, Daniel Gilbert
D Class Crew: Kevin Gee (helm), Aaron Trebilcock, Michael Martin.

16 November 2008 Newquay 029 2008

Newquay RNLI rescues fishing vessel

Newquay RNLI Atlantic 85, Gladys Mildred, lifeboat launched at 08:00 hrs on Sunday 16th November 2008 to assist a broken down fishing vessel.

The 30 ft fishing vessel had lost his engines whilst in the Gazzle, just off Towan headland. Unable to drop anchor he requested the assistance of the lifeboat.

The Atlantic 85 lifeboat helmed by Kevin Gee too the vessel in tow and returned her safely to her moorings in the harbour.

Crew: Kevin Gee (helm), Christian Brown, Joe Emmett, Duncan Wallace.

26 October 2008 Newquay 027 2008

Newquay RNLI launches to family stranded in the Gannel.

At 15:30 hrs on Sunday 26th October 2008 Newquay RNLI volunteers received a call for help from four people cut off by the tide in the river Gannel estuary.

The group were stranded at the limits of the lifeboat’s reach, on the estuary nearly opposite the boating lake.

Newquay’s inshore lifeboats Gladys Mildred and Valerie Wilson launched with Kevin Gee and Joe Emmett at the helms. The Atlantic 85 lifeboat arrived on scene shortly before the D class lifeboat.

Despite the river being in full flood tide the Atlantic lifeboat was unable to get in close enough to take the casualties onboard. Volunteer helmsman Kevin put volunteer crew Christian Brown and Rob Green ashore to reassure the five casualties. When Joe and his crew arrived in the D class the smaller draught allowed the boat to scoot in closer and pick the casualties up. Joe and his crew helped Christian Brown & Rob Green carry the stranded five to the D class lifeboat. They were then transferred to the waiting Atlantic 85 lifeboat.

The Atlantic 85 crew took them down stream to opposite Fern Pit where they were transferred ashore on to Crantock beach by the D class lifeboat. They were then able to make their way across the beach back to their car.

People should always check tide times and seek local knowledge to check their planned walk is safe. This family had done exactly that; they had asked and been reassured by an elderly woman that their route was passable.

The family of five were on holiday from Bristol. The children were 11, 9 and 5 years old.

Atlantic 85 Crew: Kevin Gee (helm), Christian Brown, Rob Green, Ross King
D class Crew: Joe Emmett (helm),Michael Martin, Aaron Trebilcock

24 October 2008 Newquay 026 2008

Three trapped by tide on Towan Island.

Newquay RNLI volunteers were tasked on Friday 24^th October 2008 at 14:20 hrs BST to assist three people cut off by the tide on Towan Island, just outside the harbour.

Falmouth coastguards received a 999 call from a member of the public reporting three children trapped by the incoming tide on Towan Island. The children, all about 9/10 years old were on the rock above what was the island’s swimming pool. There was a heavy ground sea running under the bridge, around the island making their return path through chest high water unadvisable.

A couple on holiday had spotted the children were cut off. Concerned that it would be a couple of hours before the tide receded, they dialed 999.

Newquay’s D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson launched with Joe Emmett, Ian Jepson and Daniel Gilbert aboard.

Meanwhile another family of holiday makers had also spotted the children’s plight. George Farrant had been enjoying the sea and was still in his wetsuit. He immediately leapt into action, wading through the ground sea to reach the children. He successfully bought one child back ashore through the channeling surf.

George’s father, Lance, stripped to his underwear and followed his son to assist the children. On reaching the island he decided that the heavy ground sea combined with the cold made it inadvisable to return to shore with one of the children. He sensibly remained on the island ensuring the remaining casualties were safe and reassured.

As Lance returned to the island local surfer Dave Sinclair bought one of the casualties ashore on his surf board. George remained on the island with his father and the remaining child.

Arriving on scene the lifeboat crew discovered three people on the island, one original casualty and the two heroic rescuers. Volunteer crewman Ian stayed with the lifeboat whilst Joe and Daniel waded to the stranded trio to assess the situation. Unable to motor the lifeboat in the crew raised the propeller and dragged the lifeboat to the Island. The casualties were then transferred back to the safety of the beach.

Pictures c Esther O'Brien

D class crew: Joe Emmett, Ian Jepson and Daniel Gilbert

16 October 2008 Newquay 025 2008

What’s on at Watergate?

For the second time in 48 hours Newquay RNLI’s volunteer crews headed to Watergate beach following a 999 call.

At 17:10 hrs on Thursday 16th October 2008 Falmouth coastguards requested the assistance of Newquay’s lifeboats following a 999 call from a member of the public. Two holiday makers were cut off by the tide in Watergate beach.

The D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, launched with Kevin Gee at the helm, swiftly followed by Ross King at the helm of Gladys Mildred, Newquay’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat.

Arriving on scene the crews discovered two people trapped by the incoming tide, about 100m north of the café. They had climbed about 20 ft up the cliff to escape the incoming tide. Volunteer crew Tim Stokes and Aaron Trebilcock were put ashore from the D class lifeboat.

Initially the casualties were happy to sit and wait until the tide receded. Tim and Aaron were quick to point out that it was nearly two hours to high tide and they were probably looking at a four hour wait before they would be able to escape – in the dark.

The couple reluctantly accepted the assistance of the crew. Having given them lifejackets, Aaron, ever the gentleman, carried the female through the surf back to the lifeboat, the man was able to wade back himself. They were then taken back to the main beach at Watergate bay.

14 October 2008 Newquay 024 2008

Escapuntologist launches lifeboat

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched at 17:0 hrs on Tuesday 14th October 2008 following reports of an empty boat off Watergate beach

Falmouth coastguards had received a 999 call informing them that a 10 ft wooden boat was adrift at the back of the surf off Watergate beach. Concerned that the punt may have been occupied, Falmouth coastguards requested the lifeboats launch as assess the situation.

Newquay’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, launched with Kevin Gee at the helm, followed by the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, with Ross King at the helm. Arriving on scene the crew quickly established that the punt was adrift from Newquay harbour and its owner was accounted for.

The lifeboats returned to station with the punt in tow.

Atlantic crew: Kevin Gee (helm), Rob Green, Tim Stokes, Aaron Trebilcock
D Class crew: Ross King (helm), Dan Gilbert, Kevin Walsh

12 October 2008 Newquay 023 2008

Newquay RNLI lifeboat launches to assist Crantock surfers

Newquay RNLI lifeboat crew launched at 13:40 on Sunday 12th October 2008 to assist surfers in difficulties off Crantock beach.

A member of the public had called the coastguards reporting they had seen a surfer in difficulties off Crantock beach, caught in a rip at the north end. They had also seen two nearby surfers responding, attempting to rescue the casualty.

Newquay RNLI volunteers launched the Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, with Christian Brown at the helm.

As the lifeboats arrived on scene they received confirmation that one surfer was safely ashore. As they commenced searching they were informed that all three were safely ashore; the volunteers were stood down.

Crew: Christian Brown (helm), Aaron Trebilcock, Ian Pengelly, Tim Stokes

04 October 2008 Newquay 022 2008

Saturday sail ends in rescue.

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.

Atlantic Crew: Christian Brown (helm), Aaron Trebilcock, Michael Martin, Andrew Trebilcock
D class Crew: Kevin Walsh (helm), Matt Robins, Duncan Wallace

01 October 2008 Newquay 021 2008

Lone surfer causes concern.

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 dialed 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

Tuesday 23rd September Newquay 019 2008

Crantock’s dark cries for help

At 20:20 hrs on Tuesday 23rd September 2008 Newquay RNLI volunteer crew’s pagers launched them into action to search for a surfer in distress.

Falmouth coastguards had received a 999 call from a member of the public on Crantock beach who had heard cries for help from the water. They were unable to see anyone in distress as it was dark; however they had spotted a 7ft surf board unattended in the shoreline surf on the beach.

Newquay’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, launched with Ian Jepson at the helm swiftly followed by the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson with Joe Emmett at the helm.

As the boats arrived on scene the coastguards were receiving unconfirmed reports that the surfer in question had made his way ashore and was safe and well.

The volunteers continued to search until 20:40 hrs when Falmouth coastguards confirmed that the surfer was ashore safe and well. The crews stood down and returned to station.

This was the first should for probationary crew member Aaron Trebilcock.

Atlantic crew: Ian Jepson (helm), Andrew Trebilcock, Aaron Trebilcock, Michael Martin

D class crew: Joe Emmett (helm), Dan Gilbert, Christian Brown

16 September 2008

Muster and stand down

Newquay RNLI lifeboat volunteer crew were paged at 19:40 hrs to assist with an incident. Shortly after arriving at the station the volunteers were stood down.

13 September 2008 Newquay 018 2008

999 call to surfer in difficulties

Newquay RNLI volunteers responded to a 999 call to assist a surfer at 09:30 hrs on Saturday 13th September 2008.

A member of the public had spotted what appeared to be a surfer in difficulties off Boobies bay and called Falmouth coastguards to ask for assistance. Newquay’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred and D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, were swiftly tasked.

Arriving on scene the lifeboats were unable to find any surfer in difficulties. An extensive search of the area revealed nothing and the lifeboats returned to station.

A false alarm with good intend. People should always dial 999 in the believe someone needs assistance.

Atlantic 85 crew: Simon (helm), Christian Brown, Ashley Mann , Michael Martin
D Class crew: Ross King (helm), Rob Green

11th September 2008 Newquay 017 2008

Incoming tide catches pair out

Two beach goers were caught unawares by the incoming tide on Thursday 11th September 2008. The pair had been between Whipsiderry and Watergate beach when they realised they were trapped by the incoming tide.

The pair had been walking and rock scrambling off Watergate beach, towards Whipsiderry. Luckily one of their friends had become concerned that they had not returned and reported them overdue to the RNLI lifeguards.

Two lifeguards went to search the area on their water rescue craft (jet ski) and Falmouth coastguards tasked Newquay RNLI lifeboats and the coastguard cliff rescue team.

The lifeguards quickly located the stricken pair trapped on rocks but were unable to get the RWC in to rescue them. With the tide still rising, one of the lifeguards took the decision to swim through the heavy surf and rocks to the men. The RNLI lifeguard, Kerk Latham, then helped them make there way to a safer position higher up the rocks.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats were quickly on scene but they too were unable to take either lifeboat into the casualties. The heavy surf and rocks made conditions too dangerous. Given that the lifeguard and casualties were temporarily in a safe position, the lifeboats stood by behind the surf line. A helicopter from RNAS Culdrose was tasked to winch the three trapped men to safety.

As the casualties and lifeguard were being winched to safety, a dog was spotted trapped on the cliff. The helicopter winch man returned and also rescued the dog. The border collie was taken to a local vets where it was subsequently discovered that the lucky canine had bee reported missing seven days earlier.

Volunteer crew member Rob Green said the conditions in the cove were exceptionally dangerous:

“The surf was horrendous, getting the D class lifeboat in would have been OK; it would have been coming out that would have been difficult, especially with casualties aboard. There was a clear run to a small area of beach but this was right next to a rock fall, we had no idea what was beneath the surf and could easily have damaged the lifeboat. Had the casualties been in immediate danger we would have gone in.”

Members of the public should always be aware of the tide times when exploring beaches and hidden coves. However, no doubt the collie and owner are very happy that the two chaps didn’t know the tides and got stuck!

D Class crew: Simon Bennetts (helm), Richard Martin, Rob Green
Atlantic 85 crew: Kevin Gee (helm), Tim Stokes, Andrew Trebilcock, Dan Gilbert.

31 August 2008 Newquay 016 2008

Sunday morning paddle sparks search

Two surfers got more than they bargained for when they went for an early morning paddle on Sunday 31st August 2008

Shortly after 9 am Falmouth Coastguards received a 999 call from a member of the public who had spotted two surfers stuck on Goose rock just off Pentire headland. Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats were tasked and the volunteer crew leapt into action.

The surfers had decided that it was a perfect morning for a board paddle and had decided to sit on Goose rock for a while. The member of the public mistook them to be in difficulties and summoned help.

Arriving on scene the lifeboat crew made sure that the two on the rocks were indeed the suspected casualties and then returned to station. A false alarm with good intent.

Members of the public should always dial 999 if they suspect someone is in difficulties. Better a false alarm than a tragedy.

Atlantic Crew: Mark Morris (helm), Michael Martin, Tim Stokes.
D Class crew: Kevin Walsh (helm), Brian Adamson, Matt Robins

26 August 2008 Newquay 015 2008

Late night search

Newquay’s volunteer crew were back in the lifeboats for a second time in less than four hours. Just after midnight on Tuesday 26th August 2008 the crew were paged to search for a missing male.

Falmouth coastguards had received a 999 call from some friends who were concerned for the well being of their 44 year old friend. They had been out for the evening and did not know his whereabouts. Concerned that he may have been heading for the headland they dialled 999 and requested the help of the emergency services.

The volunteer crew left their beds and mustered at the station. The \Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, launched with Ian Jepson at the helm, swiftly followed by the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson in the capable hand of Ross King.

The crews were asked to carry out a shoreline search from the harbour around to Fistral beach. Using illuminating flares, searchlights and night-vision glasses, nothing was found. At 00:45hrs the crew received a report that the man had been found safe and well at home and the lifeboats were stood down.

Atlantic crew: Ian Jepson (helm), Michael Martin, Bryan Adamson, Ashley Mann.
D Class crew: Ross King (helm), Andrew Trebilcock, Tim Stokes.

25 August 2008 Newquay 014 2008

Lucky escape for family’s evening frolic

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched at 19:50 hrs on Monday 25th August 2008 following reports of a family in distress off Crantock beach.

The bank holiday evening drew to an abrupt end for Newquay’s RNLI volunteers. A family had been caught out by rip currents on Crantock beach and needed help.

Falmouth Coastguards received a 999 call reporting and adult and two children in difficulties in an inflatable drifting off Crantock beach. There was a possibility that others had been involved but were thought to have made their way ashore.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats, Gladys Mildred and Valerie Wilson launched with Ross King and Ashley Mann at the helms. Arriving on scene, they immediately found an empty 1.5m inflatable and abandoned boogie board at the north end of Crantock beach.

The volunteer crew swiftly spotted members of the public waving and indicating they should attend the south end of the beach. There they found an adult male and two boys (10 yrs & 12 yrs) who had been picked up by two surfers. The surfers were unable to make their way back to shore through the heavy surf with the casualties.

Ross at the helm of the Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, quickly collected the father and two sons. Ashley and his crew offered the heroic surfers a tow back to the beach, one accepted, one declined. However, within minutes the second surfer realised how exhausted he was having spent his energy rescuing the family that he also accepted “a lift back to the beach”.

The casualties were then transferred to the Valerie Wilson and taken back to the safety of the beach. Assured that there was no one else in difficulties in the sea the RNLI lifeboats returned to station.

Always aim to swim on a lifeguarded beach, if you do choose to swim on unpatrolled beaches make use of the information signs that advise you of the local dangers and act accordingly. Enjoy the sea but swim safely.

If you do get into difficulties and you have a flotation device (boogie board, surf board, inflatable etc) think before abandoning it; if you have been spotted from shore (lifeguard or member of the public) it is probably better to stay with it.

Crantock beach is patrolled by RNLI lifeguards from May to September between 10:00 hrs and 18:00 hrs. During these hours, to avoid the strong tidal conditions, the patrolled safe bathing area is towards the north end of the beach; avoiding the tidal stream area.

Atlantic Crew: Ross King (helm), Michael Martin, Ian Jepson, Brian Adamson
D Class Crew: Ashley Mann (helm), Daniel Gilbert, Andrew Trebilcock

22 August 2008 Newquay 012 2008

Pregnant pause to daily routine

Newquay RNLI’s volunteer crew paused their daily routines to rescue a sea sick lady.

Newquay’s RNLI Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, self launched at 10:45 hrs on Friday 22nd August 2008 to assist a pregnant lady who was suffering from sea sickness.

The lady was on a day fishing trip when she fell ill. The skipper of the fishing boat contacted the LOM directly asking if the lifeboat would be able to assist, they were 3 miles NW of Newquay

Simon Bennetts and his crew took the lady aboard the lifeboat and bought her back to shore.

Atlantic Crew: Simon Bennetts (helm), Matt Robins, Joe Emmett

11 August 2008

Gold and bronze at Beijing, cold and wet in Newquay

The UK’s swimming triumphs at the Olympics were reflected with opposites in Newquay. Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats were launched twice today, Monday 11th August 2008, to swimmers in difficulties.

The volunteer crew were first tasked at 12:20 hrs to help what appeared to be a climber half way up a cliff. Falmouth coastguards received a 999 call from a member of the public stating they had seen a climber on the cliff side in difficulties. Already on the way to carry out a routine exercise, the crew quickly launched with Kevin Gee at the helm of the Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred.

With Newquay Coastguard Cliff rescue team also on scene the lifeboat stood by whilst the exhausted swimmer was taken to the cliff top. He had got into difficulties and realised that making his way back to the shore was not an option. He managed to scramble onto the rocks and then tried to climb the cliff to safety – and got stuck. Luckily a member of the public spotted him and the emergency services leapt into action.

The second call for help came at just after 18:30 hrs. Two swimmers had been swimming off Porth beach when they became caught in the river rip, Two then became five as three friends leapt in to help.

The emergency services were tasked. Newquay coastguards assisted two people who were chest deep in water in the river making their way ashore. The remaining three were swept out to sea. On realising they were in major difficulties they made for the rocks of Porth Island. Stranded on the rocks they realised they were trapped – rip or rocks.

Newquay RNLI’s lifeboats launched; Kevin Gee at the helm of the Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred and Ian Jepson helming the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson.

With heavy surf at the scene, Kevin stood off in the Atlantic 85 whilst Ian took the D class in to recover the casualties. Volunteer crew member Andrew Trebilcock was put ashore amid heavy surf to aid the casualties. Ian picked up the casualties one by one and transferred them to the safety of the beach.

This was a difficult rescue in difficult conditions. Ian and his crew handled the situation with great skill and expertise.

Dave Bulley, Station Officer, Newquay Coastguards compliments Ian’s handling of the lifeboat:

“The crew did a cracking job in difficult conditions. At one point they had to put the bow of the boat on the rocks to retrieve the final casualty. The lifeboat was handled well, good job done”

#1 - D Class Crew: Kevin Gee (helm), Christian Brown, Daniel Gilbert

#2 - Atlantic Crew: Kevin Gee (helm), Christian Brown, Joe Emmett, Nick Marr
#2 - D Class Crew: Ian Jepson (helm), Michael Martin, Andrew Trebilcock

10 August 2008

Lifeboat day rescue

Newquay RNLI lifeboat crew took a break from their lifeboat day demonstrations to rescue to lads in trouble in an inflatable.

The D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, was already afloat in Newquay harbour when Falmouth coastguards received a 999 call from a member of the public. Two lads had been spotted in difficulties in a 6 ft inflatable dinghy near Dane rock, just off Fly cellars.

Despite a SW6 and 1m of swell, the intrepid duo had decided to paddle from Towan beach, out around Towan headland to Fistral beach. They were persuaded to abandon their epic trek and reluctantly accepted a ride back to the harbour.

Crew: Ian Pengelly (helm), Garry Griffiths, Sean Taylor

Saturday 2nd August 2008

Bedruthan bather’s in difficulties

Newquay’s RNLI volunteer crew were tasked at 13:30 hrs on Saturday 2nd August 2008 following reports of two surfers in difficulties off Bedruthan Steps.

Falmouth Coastguards received a 999 call from a member of the public reporting two surfers in difficulties off Bedruthan Steps. Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats were requested to launch. St Merryn Coastguard team and R193 from Culdrose were also tasked.

The Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, was launched with volunteer crew member Simon Bennetts at the helm. As the lifeboat launched, Falmouth coastguards informed the Lifeboat Operations Manager, Gareth Horner, that a third person was also in difficulties having entered the water in an attempt to assist the surfers.

As the lifeboat approached the scene St Merryn Coastguards reported that RNLI lifeguards from Mawgan Porth beach has managed to rescue the surfers but they were unsure if the lifeguards had also rescued the swimmer.

Simon approached the lifeguards and confirmed that all three casualties had been rescued and all rescue teams were stood down.

Members of the public are always advised to swim at a lifeguard patrolled beach. Inexperienced surfers should also consider the merits of using a patrolled beach. The RNLI has 110 lifeguard units at beaches in the east, south, south west England and south Wales. Many more beaches are patrolled by council run lifeguard patrols.

Atlantic Crew: Simon Bennetts (helm), Kevin Gee, Richard Martin, Andrew Trebilcock

Friday 25th July 2008

Second shout of the evening

The last week in July is proving to be particularly busy for the Newquay RNLI volunteers. The volunteers were tasked for the second time of the evening at 22:50 hrs on Friday 25th July following reports of someone in the water off Towan Beach.

Falmouth coastguards received a 999 call from a member of the public who thought there was someone in the sea near Towan Beach.

The Newquay RNLI D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, launched with volunteer crew member Nick Marr at the helm swiftly followed by the Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, with Ross King at the helm. Shortly after the lifeboats launched Falmouth coastguards informed the lifeboats that the casualty was in a cove between Towan beach and the Harbour and had suffered serous injuries.

A paramedic and doctor were already with the casualty having waded through the water to reach him. Arriving on scene the D class diverted to Towan beach to collect a spinal board. The Atlantic lifeboat assessed the situation and Ross decided to return to the harbour to collect additional illumination.

As the Atlantic lifeboat returned to the scene, volunteer crew member Joe Emmett transferred to the D class to provide expert knowledge of the cove and its hidden dangers. The D class lifeboat raised its engine and the crew paddled the lifeboat into the cove. The Atlantic lifeboat stood off and illuminated the scene.

The casualty was transferred into the D class lifeboat. Police and ambulance staff waded into the water to assist with refloating the lifeboat. Nick helmed the lifeboat to a safe distance off shore where a helicopter winch man from RNAS Culdrose R193 was winched onto the lifeboat. The casualty was then lifted off the lifeboat and transferred the injured holiday maker to the Royal Cornwall Hospital.

The D class lifeboat dropped the paramedic back ashore and both lifeboats returned to station.

Atlantic Crew: Ross King (helm), Joe Emmett, Kevin Walsh
D Class Crew : Nick Marr (helm), Jonathan Sharp, Michael Martin

Friday 25th July 2008

Speed boat spots casualty

Newquay RNLI volunteer lifeboat crew were tasked at 20:30 hrs on Friday 25th July 2008 following reports of persons cut off at Great Western beach.

Following an unusually quiet beginning to the month Newquay‘s volunteer life savers were tasked for the fourth time this week (and month) to assist a woman cut off by the tide in the vicinity of Great Western Beach.

The casualty had dialled 999 herself and reported that she was cut off by the tide but was unsure of her exact location. She remembered having walked underneath a bridge. Suspecting that casualty was referring to Porth Island bridge, the coastguards tasked the lifeboats requesting they search Porth Island and Whipsiderry beach.

The D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, launched with Joe Emmett at the helm. As they approached Porth Island they were chased by a speed boat. The speed boat had spotted someone cut off by the tide in Lamorna cove. The description of the person they had seen matched that of the casualty so Joe immediately diverted back to Lamorna Cove.

The lifeboat crew picked up the casualty and transferred her back to the safety of the harbour. She was safe and well.

Crew: Joe Emmett (helm), Mark Morris, Michael Martin

Monday 22nd July 2008

Fistral where?

Newquay’s RNLI volunteers were mustered to launch the lifeboat at 22:50 hrs on Monday 22nd July 2008 to assist with searching for a man over a cliff.

Falmouth coastguards received a 999 call from the casualty himself reporting he had fallen over the cliff near the Fistral bay Hotel. Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats, Newquay Coastguard cliff rescue team and paramedics were also summoned.

The exact location of the casualty was a bit of a mystery as there is no Fistral Bay Hotel in Newquay.

Newquay’s D Class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, launched with Christian Brown at the helm. A couple of minutes later the Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, was on the beach with Ian Jepson at the helm. Just as the lifeboat was about to enter the water, Falmouth coastguards stood both boats down. The casualty had been found on Towan Headland in the vicinity of Fistral Blu.

The casualty was transferred to the Royal Cornwall Hospital where he received urgent medical attention.

D Class crew: Christian Brown (helm), Nick Marr, Simon Bennetts
Atlantic Crew : Ian Jepson (helm), Daniel Gilbert, Michael Martin.

21 July 2008

Double dash for Newquay volunteers

Newquay RNLI lifeboat crew were tasked for the second time in an hour on Monday 21st July 2008 following report of a dog on a mission swimming out to sea.

The second call of the hour came following a 999 call by a concerned owner on Porth Island. His golden retriever was swimming out to sea, not responding to his frantic calls. After 30 minutes and concerned for the dog’s safety he sensibly sought help from the emergency services.

Both of Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched but were recalled within minutes, the dog had seen the light and realise his best option was to turn around. He safely returned to shore and was reunited with his worried owner.

The first summon for help of the evening came at 19:15 hrs when a member of the public reported a tombstoner had entered the water off the harbour south quay and had not been seen to return to shore. Newquay’s RNLI volunteers were mustered from their families but stood down as they arrived at the station. The tombstoner had been found safe and well.

RoSPA figures show that on average over 100 people are admitted to hospital each year for treatment following tombstoning incidents.

Steve Wills, RNLI’s Beach Safety Manager, says:
Our advice applies to everyone – young, old, male and female – don’t do it. Jumping from a height into water can kill. I urge people to think of the consequences of their actions. Young adults and teenagers can be easily impressionable – I’m concerned that young people may try to copy what they see.’

D Class Crew: Simon Bennetts (helm), Michael Martin, Dan Gilbert
Atlantic Crew: Nick Marr (helm), Christian Brown, Brian Adamson, Tim Stokes

Saturday 28th June 2008

Multi tasking – double dash for Newquay RNLI.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats were tasked simultaneously to two shouts on Saturday 28th June 2008. Ironically both incidents were on the same beach but unrelated.

Falmouth Coastguards requested the assistance of Newquay’s lifeboat at 20:47 hrs on Saturday 28th June. They had received two 999 calls reporting people in difficulties on Porth beach. Two people were in the water caught in a rip and a lady with her dog was cut off by the tide.

The lifeboats launched with Ian Jepson at the helm of the Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, and Joe Emmett at the helm of the relief D class lifeboat, Mabel Davis. Priority was given to the people caught in the rip.

Arriving on scene the volunteer crew quickly established that the two people in difficulties in the water had managed to make their way ashore. They swiftly diverted to the second casualty.

The local female had been walking her greyhound when it fell down the cliff. She had subsequently climbed down after the dog and discovered she was unable to make her way back up to safety. Joe helmed the D class lifeboat through the surf, successfully rescuing the lady and her dog and returning them to the safety of the beach.

With everyone safe and sound the lifeboats returned to station.

Atlantic Crew: Ian Jepson (helm), Kevin Gee, Christian Brown, Ross King
D Class Crew : Joe Emmett (helm), Mike Martin, Andrew Trebilcock

Saturday 14th June 2008

Tragic tumble.

Newquay RNLI lifeboat launched to investigate the sighting of a body off Porth Island on Saturday 14th June at 14:40 hrs

Cornwall Air Ambulance had reported to Falmouth Coastguards that there was possibly body off Porth Island. Newquay RNLI lifeboats were swiftly tasked and RNAS Rescue 193 also responded.

Newquay’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat Gladys Mildred launched with Simon Bennetts at the helm. The lifeboat and R193 arrived on scene at the same time to discover a casualty on the rocks above the water line. A paramedic was already at the scene with the casualty.

R193 was then tasked to recover the body from the rocks whilst Newquay’s lifeboat kept a safe area clear. R193 had recovered the body and transferred them to the Royal Cornwall Hospital.

Following a request from the Police, volunteer crew member, Kevin Walsh entered the water and swam ashore to search the coastline for personal possessions of the deceased. Nothing was found.

Newquay’s volunteer crew returned to station.

Atlantic Crew :Simon Bennetts (helm), Andrew Trebilcock, Matt Robins, Kevin Walsh

Picture: Terry Barnecutt

Friday, 06 June 2008

Found - safe and sound.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched to search for a missing elderly gentleman at 21:10 hrs on Friday 6th June 2008.

An eighty four year old gentleman had been missing for 24 hours. Following a suspicion that the local elderly gentleman could be on coast line, Falmouth coastguards tasked Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats to search the sea and shore line between Towan Head and Poly Joke.

Both lifeboats launched. Ross King helmed the Atlantic 85, Gladys Mildred and commenced searching the coastline. Ian Jepson took the helm of the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson and searched the Gannel estuary.

At 21:44 hrs both lifeboats were stood down. The gentleman had been found safe on Pentire headland.

Atlantic Crew: Ross King (helm), Mark Morris, Brian Adamson
D Class Crew: Ian Jepson (helm), Michael Martin , Kevin Walsh.

Thursday 22nd May 2008

Newquay RNLI lifeboat launch to unconscious diver

Newquay RNLI Atlantic lifeboat was called to an unconscious diver five miles north west of Newquay Harbour at around 3pm on Thursday 22nd May.

A party of four had chartered the dive-vessel for the day and the casualty had gone along in addition, to make up numbers. Shortly after entering the water the other discovered the casualty lying unconcious with his regulator out of his mouth. They took him to the surface and helped the skipper to recover him onto the dive-boat and radioed the coastguard for assistance.

Newquay’s RNLI Atlantic 85 lifeboat and RNAS Culdrose were called to the scene. RNAS Culdrose winched their own diver aboard the dive vessel, and the RNLI lifeboat went alongside and put volunteer crew-member Christian Brown, who is a paramedic aboard to assist. They worked together to administer CPR until the casualty was airlifted by helicopter to Treliske Hospital, Truro.

D Class Crew: Christian Brown (Helm), Tim Stokes, Ross King

Monday 19th May 2008

Newquay RNLI lifeboat launch to Whipsiderry beach

Newquay RNLI lifeboat was called to evacuate a woman and her dog from Whipsiderry beach in Newquay.

The woman was walking her elderly St Bernard cross Mastiff along the top of the cliff at Whipsiderry around 8.30pm, when it wandered down the long and steep steps to the beach to follow another dog. However, due its age and infirmity, it was unable to climb back up the steps, and the woman was forced to call the coastguard for assistance.

Once on the scene, the coastguard decided the dog would not make it up the cliff and they requested Newquay lifeboat to assist in evacuating the dog and its owner by sea.

Newquay’s D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson launched at 9pm, and with the assistance of the Newquay coastguard team, both owner and dog were put aboard the lifeboat and taken around to Porth beach where they were landed safe and well.

D Class Crew: Ian Jepson (Helm), Tim Stokes, Andrew Trebilcock

Picture: Terry Barnecutt

Sunday 11th May 2008

Sleepless night for Newquay RNLI volunteers

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats received a request to launch at 00:47 hrs on Sunday 11th May 2008 following reports of a missing female.

Falmouth coastguards had received a 999 call from a member of the public reporting a woman missing, possibly between Beacon Cove and Bedruthan Steps. Concerned for the safety of the vulnerable woman the emergency services were tasked.

Newquay’s lifeboats launched within 10 minutes of the pagers sounding. Ross King took the helm of the Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, and Ian Pengelly helmed the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson.

Both lifeboats arrived on scene just before 01:10 hrs and commenced searching the area.

At 01:15 hrs the volunteer crew were stood down, the female had been found safe and well at her home.

Arriving back at the station at 01:35 hrs, the lifeboat crew and shore crew washed down the lifeboats and refuelled them ready for the next shout.

The ten volunteers finally returned to their sleeping families just after 2 am.

Newquay RNLI welcomes Jonathan Sharp. He is currently living in the Newquay area whilst studying in Cornwall and an RNLI volunteer crew member with the Lytham St Anne’s lifeboat. He is using this as an opportunity to gain experience of a different station, boats and coastal conditions.

Atlantic Crew: Ross King (helm), Michael Martin, Christian Brown.
D Class Crew: Ian Pengelly (helm), Jonathan Sharp, Tim Stokes
Shore crew: Wayne Martin, Graham Mountford, Stuart Wray

Tuesday 6th May 2008

Sun, sea, sand and…an off shore wind.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboat launched at 15:25 hrs on Tuesday 6th May 2008 following reports of a kayaker in difficulties off Porth Island

Newquay‘s D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, launched following sightings of an inflatable kayak adrift and its occupant in difficulties.

Arriving on scene volunteer helmsman Joe Emmett and his crew spotted 3 people on rocks on Porth Island. The party had been out for a paddle on a rigid kayak, an inflatable kayak and a boogie board. They had managed to drag their rigid kayak and boogie board with them. The lifeboat transferred the two males and one female back to the safety of Porth beach.

Meanwhile, the escaped inflatable kayak aided by the offshore wind was rapidly making its escape across the bay. Concerned that someone may see the kayak and think it had an occupant in difficulties, Joe & his crew gave chase. The kayak was recovered approximately ½ mile off shore and had developed a puncture.

With all casualties safely ashore and no escaped boats the lifeboat returned to station.

Crew: Joe Emmett (helm), Mark Morris, Brian Adamson

Sunday 4th May 2008

Father and son get into trouble.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched at 10:30 hrs on Sunday 4th May 2008 following reports of two people missing on Pentire Headland.

Falmouth coastguards had received a 999 call from a member of the public. She had heard her son calling but was unable to find him or her husband. They were missing on the Crantock side of Pentire headland.

Newquay’s D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, was already afloat on exercise. With Mark Morris at the helm the lifeboat swiftly diverted to Crantock. The Atlantic lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, launched with Christian Brown at the helm. The two lifeboats searched from the sea whilst the coastguard cliff rescue team searched from land.

At approximately 10:45 hrs, father and son were found safe and well in the car park. Both lifeboats returned to station.

This was newly qualified helmsman Christian Brown’s first shout at the helm of the Atlantic 85 lifeboat.

D Class Crew: Mark Morris, Michael Martin, Kevin Walsh.
Atlantic Crew : Christian Brown (helm), Sean Taylor, Brian Adamson

Thursday 3rd April 2008

Not the foggiest

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched at 13:35 hrs on Thursday 3rd April 2008 following reports of two missing surfers.

Falmouth coastguards had received a 999 call from a member of the public reporting two surfers missing in the fog somewhere between Watergate beach and Porth beach.

The pair had been seen surfing in the area but then were lost in the fog. Concerned that the pair were still In the water, the member of the public raised the alarm.

Newquay’s lifeboats launched immediately. Mark Morris took the helm of the Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, and Ross King helmed the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson.

Searching between Watergate and Porth proved a challenging task; fog limited visibility to less than 300m.

The two male teenagers were eventually found by the coastguards, safe and well, ashore at the north end of Watergate bay.

Atlantic Crew: Mark Morris (helm), Rob Green, Michael Martin, Sean Taylor
D Class Crew: Ross King (helm), Ashley Mann, Tim Stokes,

Monday, 31 March 2008

Ripping Surf

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched at 13:30 hrs on Monday 31st March 2008 to assist a body boarder in difficulties off North end of Mawgan Porth beach.

Falmouth coastguards had received a 999 call form a member of the public indicating that there was a body boarder caught in a rip at the north end of Mawgan Porth.

Newquay’s relief Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Drayton Manor, launched with Kevin Gee at the helm, accompanied by Mark Morris at the helm of the D class lifeboat Valerie Wilson. Newquay Coastguard cliff rescue team were also tasked and a RAF helicopter responded as they were in the area on a training exercise.

As the lifeboats arrived on scene there were 15ft waves breaking against the rocks at the base of the cliff. The casualty managed get out of the rip and had made his way back to shore where Newquay coastguards were on hand to help him out of the sea onto the rocks. He had suffered cuts and bruises.

The Newquay RNLI lifeboats stood by until the casualty and coastguards were confirmed to be in a safe location and then returned to station.

Mawgan Porth is one of the Newquay beaches patrolled by RNLI lifeguards through the summer. The RNLI lifeguard service commences on 1st May on North Fistral and Towan. Crantock, South Fistral, Tolcarne, Great Western, Porth, Watergate and Mawgan Porth commence on 17th May. These beaches will be patrolled until 30th September 2008.

D Class Crew: Kevin Gee (helm), Joe Emmett, Rob Green
Atlantic Crew : Mark Morris (helm), Mike Martin, Ross King

Sea Conditions: Part cloudy, Visibility: good, Wind: NW5, Sea state: moderate, 2m swell

Sunday, 30 March 2008

Catamaran capsize.

Newquay’s RNLI D Class lifeboat launched at 12:50 hrs on Sunday 30th March 2008 following reports of a catamaran in difficulties in Newquay Bay

Falmouth coastguards had received two 999 calls from members of the public reporting that a catamaran had capsized and appeared unable to right itself.

Volunteer crew at Newquay RNLI lifeboat station had already spotted the catamaran, Mischief, in difficulties and had been observing its progress for several minutes in the hopes that the single handed sailor would be able to right the vessel on his own.

Once it became apparent that the sailor was unlikely to be able to right the catamaran single handed, the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, launched with volunteer crew member Mark Morris at the helm.

Arriving on scene, Kevin Walsh took the helm of the D class whilst Mark Morris entered the water and assisted the sailor to right the catamaran. When Mark enquired what the problem was; the sailor said he had insufficient body weight to right the catamaran.

Concerned about the sailor’s ability to right the catamaran should he capsize again, the lifeboat crew offered to escort Mischief back to the harbour, the sailor declined stating he intended continue with his Sunday sail. When asked Mark asked what he proposed to do if he capsized again the casualty did not answer.

The lifeboat crew decided it would be prudent to remain on scene for a while in case the casualty capsized again. After 20 minutes the lifeboat and her volunteer lifeboat crew returned to station.

Newquay’s RNLI volunteer crew would like to reassure the public that if they are concerned that someone may be in difficulties they should always call the coastguards.

Newquay RNLI has launched to assist Mischief on numerous occasions over the last few years.

Crew: Mark Morris (helm), Kevin Walsh (helm), Mike Martin.

Sea Conditions: Visibility: good, Wind: Southerly 2, Sea state: calm, 1 m swell

Wednesday 26th March 2008

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launch to couple cut off by tide

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats were requested to launch this afternoon (26 March) to a lady and gentleman in their 20’s who had been off by the tide at Bedruthan Steps.

Newquay’s relief Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Drayton Manor, launched at 16:19 hrs with volunteer crewman Kevin Gee at the helm, swiftly followed by the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, helmed by Mark Morris.

The D class inshore lifeboat was first on the scene and visually located the casualty. With a three-foot swell and an unpleasant force four northwesterly wind, the volunteer crew decided the preferred option would be to evacuate the casualties by land.

While the crew on the D class lifeboat went in close to the shore to make contact and reassure the couple, St Merryn and Newquay Coastguards worked together to winch a man down the cliff. However, on reaching the bottom, he was unhappy that the casualties would have to be winched across an overhang and requested they be evacuated by sea.

The crew of the D class lifeboat negotiated the strong swell to get in close enough to pick up the casualties. They were then transferred onto the waiting Atlantic 85 lifeboat and bought safety to the boathouse at 17.40 where although wet, they were given a cup of hot tea and were none the worse for their experience.

Gareth Horner, Newquay’s RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager said:

‘On realising they were in danger the lady and gentleman did exactly as they should, by calling 999 and asking for the coastguard. We were then able to get to them as quickly as possible.

The RNLI would advise anyone planning to take a walk along the coast to note the time of high tide and the weather forecast, both of which are available at the local harbour office or lifeboat station. Walkers should also be aware of their changing surroundings at all times.’

Atlantic 85 crew: Kevin Gee (helm), Matt Robins, Simon Bennett and, Andrew Trebilcock
D Class crew: Mark Morris (helm), Ross King and Tim Stokes

Friday, 21 March 2008

Overland Launch.
Can we do it? Yes we can!

People could be mistaken for thinking that Newquay RNLI’s GPS had malfunctioned on Friday 21st March 2008. Rest assured that was not the case.

At 16:45 hrs on Good Friday, Newquay’s Operations Manager, Gareth Horner, was contacted by Falmouth coastguard. A person and their dog was cut off by the tide in the river Gannel.

The sea was running a NW 8 with heavy seas off the harbour; conditions beyond the safe limits of both of Newquay RNLI’s lifeboats. Gareth immediately suggested the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, launched over land. There were two possible launching points on the Gannel accessible by road.

The crew were paged to launch, Ben Eglington, Ross King and Andrew Trebilcock were the first to muster, unaware of the unusual launch that faced them.

Launcher Stuart Wray took the driving seat of the mule accompanied by head launcher Graham Mountford. Blue lights flashing Stuart towed the lifeboat through Newquay’s streets to the launching site off the slip way at Trethellan hill. Unlike the historic overland launch of the Lynmouth lifeboat in 1899, Newquay’s mule had four wheels and an engine!

The female casualty and her dog were caught unawares on the Crantock side of the Gannel, opposite the Saltings. Ben and his crew swiftly rescued the casualty and brought her back safely to shore. She was passed into the care of Newquay’s coastguard cliff rescue team at the Saltings car park.

In a fashion usually reserved for carnivals, the Valerie Wilson and her volunteer crew returned to station at a more leisurely pace with volunteer shore crew member Laurence Pascoe following behind in his van with the remaining shore crew.

Our RNLI lifeboats cannot launch with out volunteer shore crew. They are the people behind the scenes. They are important. They help save lives.

This was Ben Eglington’s first time at the helm on a shout – well done Ben but you need to run faster, Ross keeps beating you! Both Ben & Ross recently qualified as Atlantic & D class lifeboat helmsmen.

Crew: Ben Eglington (helm), Ross King and Andrew Trebilcock

Monday 18th February 2008

Doggy paddler rescued.

Newquay RNLI’s lifeboats were requested to launch at 12:42 hrs on Monday 18th February 2008 following reports of three people and a dog in difficulties in the water off Whipsiderry beach.

Falmouth Coastguards had received a 999 call for a member of the public. Three people were in the water off Whipsiderry beach. Their Jack Russell terrier had got into difficulties and they had followed the dog in to the water in an attempt to rescue it.

Newquay’s D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, launched first with volunteer crewman Mark Morris at the helm. This was swiftly followed but the Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, helmed by newly qualified volunteer helmsman Ross King.

When the boats arrived on scene the three people had managed to make their way back to shore and up the cliff to waiting paramedics. The dog was still in the water swimming frantically in circles. As the D class lifeboat rounded the corner, the dog spotted the lifeboat and started to swim towards it. The lifeboat came as close to the dog as was safe but was still a few metres away. Seeing that the dog was barely able to keep above the water, volunteer crew member Christian Brown entered the water and swam to the dog. He then swam back to the lifeboat with the dog. he dog, Judy, was taken ashore where the coastguards rushed it to a local vet for treatment. Judy was treated an discharged later in the day.

This was Ross’ first shout as at the helm. Congratulations to Ross King and Ben Eglington recently completed their training to become helmsmen on both the Atlantic 85 and the D class lifeboats.

Atlantic 85 crew: Ross King (helm), Nick Marr, Brian Adamson
D Class crew: Mark Morris (helm), Chris Brown, Tim Stokes

Saturday 19th January 2008

Sunday, 16 December 2007

Surfer sparks 999 call.

Newquay RNLI’s lifeboats were diverted to Great Western beach at 10:56 hrs on Sunday 16th December following a report of a surfer in difficulties off Great Western Beach.

Newquay’s lifeboats were exercising in Newquay Bay when Falmouth Coastguard requested that they divert to Great Western Beach to investigate reports of a surfer in difficulties. A member of the public had seen a surfer in difficulties and dialled 999.

With Kevin Gee at the helm of the Atlantic 85, Gladys Mildred and Garry Griffiths at the helm of the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, the lifeboats were on scene within 2 minutes. The Gladys Mildred stood by at the back of the surf whilst the Valerie Wilson went closer to shore to investigate.

The volunteer crew discovered two surfers ashore, both safe and well. One of the surfers had managed to get to shore with his surf board following behind, it is thought that he had possibly become separated from his surf board giving the members of the public cause for concern.

A false alarm with good intent.

Gareth Horner, Newquay RNLI lifeboat operations manager says:

“Anyone who believes they have seen someone in difficulties should never hesitate to dial 999 and inform the coastguard. Better a false alarm than a tragedy”

This was the first shout for new volunteer crew member Brian Adamson.

Sunday, 04 November 2007

Gladys Mildred to the rescue.

Newquay’s new state of the art Atlantic 85 lifeboat received her first and second calls for help on Sunday 4th November. Newquay RNLI’s lifeboats were requested to launch at 18:00 hrs following reports of two distress flares in Newquay Bay and then diverted to a broken down fishing vessel.

Falmouth coastguards had received numerous calls from members of the public on shore and from vessels at sea reporting the sighting of two distress flares close to shore in Newquay bay. The coastguards had already received reports of red flares being set off in two other locations along the coast between Newquay and St Agnes.

Despite a plentiful display of fireworks being released in the Newquay area there was no doubt that the sightings were actually red distress flares.

Newquay’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat, The Gladys Mildred, helmed by Ian Jepson took to the water for her first shout. Accompanied by the D Class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, helmed by Joe Emmett the lifeboats were tasked to search the area around Porth Island.

At approximately 18:40 hrs whilst searching the area the Atlantic 85 lifeboat was requested to divert to another emergency. During the search the crew aboard the D Class lifeboat had spotted red flares being released from Watergate bay beach. Suspecting this was the probable source of the 999 calls the D class stood by and the Atlantic 85 lifeboat diverted to Penhale. The Police and Coastguards were tasked to investigate the incident on Watergate bay beach.

The second shout for Gladys Mildred came following a distress call by an 8m fishing vessel, Patrice, broken down off Penhale point. The fishing boat had suffered engine failure and was also experiencing difficulties with their radio. She had managed to drop her anchor and was holding her position off the Madripps.

Ian and his crew towed the Patrice back to Newquay where she was moored up outside the harbour. Her two occupants were then transferred back to shore in the lifeboat.

The D Class lifeboat was back on station at 19:02 hrs and the Atlantic 85 lifeboat at 19:55 hrs.

Gareth Horner, Newquay RNLI lifeboat operations manager says:

“It is against the law to set off red flares if you are not in danger. People risk a hefty fine if caught doing so.

“Had the fishing vessel needed to release red flares to summon assistance they may not have received the rapid response of the emergency services. Under different circumstances this could have resulted in a very different outcome.

“Anyone who believes they have seen a distress flare or someone in difficulties should never hesitate to dial 999 and inform the coastguard. Better a false alarm than a tragedy”

Gareth also praised the new Atlantic 85 lifeboat, the Gladys Mildred:

“She has lived up to our expectations and the crew were delighted with the way she performed”

Atlantic 85 Crew: Ian Jepson (helm), Mark Morris, Sean Taylor, Christian Brown.
D Class Crew: Joe Emmett (helm), Kevin Walsh, Michael Martin.

Thursday, 11 October 2007

Dark nights, rescue knights.

Newquay RNLI volunteer crew launched to search for a possible missing body boarder missing shortly after night fall.

A member of the public called Falmouth coastguards, reporting he had lost sight of his body boarding mate off the north end of Crantock beach. With dark falling so swiftly he was unsure of his friend’s whereabouts; concerned for his safety he had called for assistance.

Newquay’s volunteer crew were mustered. The relief Atlantic 75 lifeboat, Daisy Aitken, helmed by Ian Jepson accompanied by the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, with Joe Emmett at the helm were swiftly launched. They were tasked to search North Crantock and into the Gannel estuary.

Shortly after the lifeboats arrived on scene they were stood down by Falmouth coastguards. The suspected casualty had made his way to shore safe and well.

Atlantic Crew: Ian Jepson (helm), Ben Eglington, Michael Martin.
D Class crew: Joe Emmett (helm), Sean Taylor, Ross King, Nick Marr.

Monday, 24 September 2007

Newquay RNLI ready for any call for help.

Newquay’s volunteer RNLI crew leapt into action at 19:40 hrs on Monday 24th September 2007 to assist in a search for the occupants of a tent – not the usual call for the RNLI. This added to Newquay’s diverse collection of rescue requests.

A tent pitched on Towan headland had been seen hanging over the cliffs, there were belongings scattered at the bottom. The alarm was raised by people concerned that the occupants may have gone over the cliffs too.

Newquay’s RNLI volunteer crew launched with Ashley Mann at the helm of the D Class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson and Ian Jepson helming the relief Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Daisy Aitken. The coastguard cliff rescue team, police and a land ambulance were on scene. R193 from Culdrose had also been tasked.

The lifeboats were tasked to search the Gazzle, between old Lifeboat slip and Towan head.

Despite extensive searching by all the emergency services involved, no one was found. At 20:15 hrs all were stood down.

The year started with a bizarre collection of shouts, all hinging around the letter ‘C’, cows, Christmas trees, catamarans and cars, following through later on with crabbers, coats (yes, a anorak) Have we now moved on to the end of the alphabet for the end of the year? Here’s hoping we only have U, V, W, X, Y & Z to go!

Atlantic Crew: Ashley Mann (helm), Joe Emmett, Chris Brown
D Class Crew: Ian Jepson (helm), Michael Martin, Tim Stokes.

Friday 14th September

Anorak goes shark spotting?

Newquay’s volunteer RNLI crew leapt into action on Friday 14th September following reports of a suspicious object in the water

At approximately 19:20 hrs Falmouth Coastguards received a 999 call fro a member of the public. They had spotted a suspicious object in the water and were concerned that it may have been a body.

The relief Atlantic 75 lifeboat, Daisy Aitken, helmed by Mark Morris was dispatched to South Fistral where the object was quickly identified as a anorak.

The anorak had air trapped in the padding and did look like it could have been a person floating face down in the water.

A false alarm with good intent.

Could this be the start of a new trend? Could this be the first anorak out shark spotting?

Crew : Mark Morris (helm), Ian Jepson, Christian Brown

Wednesday 29th August 2007

Page & Muster

Tuesday 28th August 2007

Newquay RNLI lifeboat volunteers tow three to safety

The volunteer crew of both of Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats went to the aid of three people aboard a catamaran that had lost its mast off Towan Head in Newquay.

Newquay’s D class lifeboat Valerie Wilson was launched at 12.40 and shortly afterwards at 12.45 the relief Atlantic lifeboat Daisy Aitken was launched. The three people onboard the 19 foot catamaran, two of which were on holiday from Birmingham, had just set out on a days cruise from Newquay Harbour, when the mast began to come down. With a north westerly wind, force 3-4, and a moderate swell, the volunteer lifeboat crew could not see any reason why the mast should fall down. However, on closer inspection they could see that a metal plate, which holds the mast to the deck, was missing.

The Atlantic lifeboat crewed by volunteers Nick Marr on helm, Tim Stokes and Kevin Walsh towed the catamaran back to shore, where she was transferred to the D class lifeboat crewed volunteers by Joe Emmett on helm and Ashley Mann. The D class lifeboat brought her safely back into Newquay Harbour where she will be repaired.

Newquay RNLI lifeboat’s second shout of the day

Newquay RNLI lifeboat volunteer crew were called out last night (28 August) for the second time in one day. Both RNLI lifeboats launched to investigate a call from a member of the public who had reported seeing people cut off by the tide at Holywell Bay, North Cornwall.

The relief Atlantic lifeboat Daisy Aitken, crewed by RNLI volunteers Nick Marr on helm, Mike Martin and Ross King launched at 20.36 hours, along with the D class lifeboat Phyllis, crewed by RNLI volunteers Joe Emmett at helm, Sean Taylor and Tim Stokes. Both lifeboats searched the northern end of Holywell Bay where the sighting had been reported.

While the volunteer lifeboat crews could not find anyone in difficulties, they did find two teenagers who were in no danger, angling on the rocks. The teenagers clothing matched the description given, and after a further search of the area recovered nothing, the lifeboat crews concluded the sighting was a false alarm, but with good intent.

Gareth Horner, Newquay RNLI lifeboat operations manager says:
‘The Newquay RNLI volunteer lifeboat crew would like to reassure the public that if they are genuinely concerned that they may have seen someone in difficulties, they should always call the coastguard. The volunteer crew would much rather respond to a false alarm with good intent than to a tragedy. The coastguard can be contacted by dialling 999 and asking for the coastguard.’

Saturday 25th August 2007

Not the foggiest, Newquay’s RNLI lifeboat rescues motorboat lost in the fog.

Newquay RNLI lifeboat went to the rescue of two local men aboard a motorboat yesterday (25 August) off Pentire Point. The men had lost their bearings in the dense fog which covered the north Cornwall coast, and were unable to navigate their way back to land in the poor visibility.

Newquay’s relief Atlantic lifeboat Daisy Aitken, with volunteer crew; Kevin Gee, on helm, Joe Emmett, Ben Eglinton and Ian Jepson, launched at 18:18 hours on the request of Falmouth coastguard, to recover the 12 foot motorboat Whispering Lady, who was lost in the sea mist off Towan Point.

With visibility around 300m, the lifeboat requested Whispering lady let off a red flare, which would enable the crew to pin point her exact location. However, even after the red flare was fired, the lifeboat could still not locate the motorboat, and asked the two men onboard to describe what they could see in the poor visibility.

From their description of a group of rocks, the lifeboat crew, who know the local coastline extensively, located Whispering Lady off Pentire point, a good mile away from the position they had originally given.

Daisy Aitken escorted Whispering lady back to Newquay harbour, and docked at 18.48 hours.

Monday 20th August 2007

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboat responds to Mayday

Newquay's RNLI lifeboat was tasked by Falmouth coastguard late on Monday 20th August to respond to a Mayday call received on channel 16, south west of Trevose Head. They were joined by Padstow’s RNLI lifeboat, but both were stood down after a search of the area found nothing.

Newquay's relief Atlantic RNLI lifeboat Daisy Aitken, helmed by Ian Jepson was launched at 23:23 hrs to search up the coast towards Trevose Head for the source of the Mayday call, while Padstow's Tamar lifeboat began a search down the coast towards Newquay.

Conditions were poor with a northerly gale force 5 wind and lumpy seas. The RNLI volunteer crew on Daisy Aitken went to investigate lights spotted out a sea off Newquay. On route they were swamped by a big wave, which broke the VHS aerial off. While they stopped to replace it, Falmouth coastguard had picked up the source of the lights on their AIS system (radar) and confirmed it was a known vessel 9 miles off Newquay and provided further confirmation that the vessel was not the casualty they were looking for.

A further search by Newquay and Padstow lifeboats found nothing and at 00:08 hrs Newquay's Daisy Aitken was stood down while Padstow lifeboat continued to search the coastline as they made their back to station where they were expected to be stood down.

Daisy Aitken crew: Ian Jepson (helm), Michael Martin, Andrew Trebilcock

Wednesday 15th August 2007

Triple Top. Three shouts in five hours for Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched three times in five hours on Wednesday 15th August 2007. This is the latest in a succession of multiple shouts bringing the total number of launches for this month alone to eleven.

The first call for help came at approximately 15:20 hrs. Three people (father, mother and daughter) were in difficulties in the water off Bedruthan steps. As the lifeboat arrived on scene the family had managed to get back to shore. It was thought that the father may have swallowed a lot of sea water so the family were flown to the Royal Cornwall Hospital as a precaution.

The second call was at approximately 19:40 hrs. Falmouth Coastguards had received several 999 calls reporting that a catamaran had capsized “several” times and was in difficulties.

The relief Atlantic lifeboat, Daisy Aitken, was swiftly launched by tractor driver Wayne Martin with Kevin Gee at the helm. As the lifeboat arrived on scene the catamaran, Mischief, was caught in the surf off Lusty Glaze. Unable to get themselves out of difficulties the two sailors had already abandoned the boat and were making their way to shore. The lifeboat stood by until they were ashore and then returned to station. The catamaran, a Hobie 16, was left in the surf in the hands of the sea.

This is not the first time that Newquay RNLI’s volunteer crew have mustered to save this sailor and his boat, Gareth Horner, Newquay RNLI lifeboat operations manager says:

“We have lost count of the numerous times we have launched to this chap and his boat.
”He was sailing in poor conditions at the limits of high water, on a lee shore. This is asking for trouble. He got away with it by the skin of his teeth, he was very lucky.
”If they had come ashore 100m to either side of where they ended up; with the sea was breaking against the cliffs and rocks, the outcome would probably have been very different.”

Mischief has long history with Newquay RNLI. Her most notable shout was in February 2006 where she was rescued four times in the space of four hour, twice by the lifeboat and twice by local fishing vessels.

The third shout was at approximately 20:50 hrs. A member of the public had reported seeing a body boarder drifting off Polly Joke (Porth Joke). With no mobile signal in the valley he had run about half a mile back to the campsite to dial 999. Both lifeboats were tasked in failing light and poor conditions.

The relief Atlantic lifeboat, Daisy Aitken, crewed by Ian Jepson (helm). Joe Emmett and Michael Martin along with the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, crewed by Kevin Gee (helm), Tim Stokes and Nick Marr, searched the area. Whilst they could find no one in difficulties, they did find a floating fish box. This was thought to be the sighting and the lifeboats and crew were stood down returning to station and 21:15 hrs.

Newquay’s RNLI volunteer crew would like to reassure the public that if they are genuinely concerned that someone may be in difficulties they should always call the coastguards. We would rather respond to a false alarm with good intent that to a tragedy.

We would also urge all sea, beach and coastal users to act responsibly. Check tidal conditions, check the weather and know your limitations.

Shout #1
Atlantic Crew: Ian Jepson (helm), Kevin Gee, Joe Emmett
D Class Crew: Nick Marr (helm), Christian Brown, Tim Stokes

Shout #2
Atlantic Crew: Kevin Gee (helm), Joe Emmett, Ian Jepson

Shout #3
Atlantic Crew: Kevin Gee (helm), Joe Emmett, Tim Stokes
D Class Crew: Ian Jepson (helm), Ashley Mann, Phil Cornes

Sunday, 12 August 2007

Double shout for Newquay RNLI

Five people in difficulties off Holywell beach sparked a launch for the Newquay RNLI volunteer crew with another tasking to Whipsiderry beach on the way home.

At approximately 19:30 hrs on Sunday 12th August, Newquay’s volunteer RNLI crew were tasked to assist 5 people in difficulties off Holywell beach. Falmouth Coastguards had received a 999 call requesting help.

As the RNLI lifeboats launched, Falmouth Coastguards received a call from a member of the public indicating that they thought that all of the people in difficulties had managed to get back to shore safely. However, Falmouth Coastguards requested that the crew still attended the scene and ensured that all were safe and well.

Ian Jepson at the helm of the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, and Nick Marr helming the relief Atlantic lifeboat Daisy Aitken, quickly sped to Holywell beach.

Satisfied that no one was in difficulties in the water they were stood down at approximately 19:50 hrs. But there was no rest for the wicked…

Falmouth Coastguards then diverted the lifeboats to Whipsiderry beach following reports of a man falling approximately 13 ft off rocks on to the beach. Nick diverted the Atlantic lifeboat back to the lifeboat station to collect the spinal board whilst Ian and his volunteer crew consisting of two off duty paramedics, proceeded to Whipsiderry. As the lifeboat arrived, the casualty’s friend had managed to walk him back up the steps to the cliff top despite his head injuries. He was then transferred to the Royal Cornwall Hospital by land ambulance for assessment and treatment.

The lifeboats returned to station and were ready for the next call at 20:35 hrs.

Holywell beach one of many RNLI lifeguard patrolled beaches, manned 10:00 – 18:00 hrs through out the summer months. However, the RNLI provides search and rescue cover 24/7; 365 days of the year for the whole coastline of the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland, this is made possible by the dedication of volunteer lifeboat crew.

D Class Crew: Ian Jepson (helm), Ashley Mann, Christian Brown.
Atlantic Crew: Nick Marr (helm), Michael Martin, Sean Taylor

Wednesday, 08 August 2007

Not so speedy.

Newquay’s relief Atlantic lifeboat, Daisy Aitken, launched on Wednesday 8^th August 2007 to assist a broken down speed boat.

At approximately 16:10 hrs the lifeboat launched with Ian Jepson at the helm. Falmouth Coastguards had received a request for assistance for two adult males in a speed boat that had suffered engine failure off Watergate bay.

Ian, assisted by Kevin Gee and Joe Emmett, took the two men aboard the lifeboat and towed the stricken vessel back to Newquay harbour.

This was the first shout for relief lifeboat Daisy Aitken who arrived on station on Sunday. Our Atlantic lifeboat has sustained damage whilst on service over the weekend and is away for repair. Due to the expected arrival of the new lifeboat in October and the length of time the repairs may take, it is possible we may not see Phyllis back on station. Phyllis is due to join the relief fleet in October and will provide a valuable backup for all Atlantic 75 lifeboats, ready to be deployed to any station at a moment’s notice 24/7 – 365.

Crew: Ian Jepson (helm), Kevin Gee and Joe Emmett.

Sunday, 05 August 2007

No rest for the wicked

Following a highly successful lifeboat day with bumper crowds, the public still needed the services of Newquay’s RNLI lifeboat crew.

Newquay’s RNLI volunteer lifeboat crew are available 24/7 365 days of the year. Despite arriving at the station at 08:00 am to help with the setting up of lifeboat day, and then having to wait for the arrival of the relief lifeboat, the volunteer shore and lifeboat crew leapt into action at 19:20 hrs following reports of 2 or 3 children in the water off rocks on Porth beach.

The D Class Lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, launched with Ian Jepson at the helm, accompanied by Christian Brown and Michael Martin. As they arrived at Porth there was only one 12 y.o in difficulties who had managed to scramble to the rocks. The others had managed to make their way safely back to shore.

They transferred the girl back to the safety of the beach and returned to station – hopefully for the last time this weekend.

D Class Crew : Ian Jepson (helm), Christian Brown, Michael Martin

Shore Crew: Mark Weston (mule), John Ripper, Wayne Martin, Ross King, Mark Morris

Saturday, 04 August 2007

Two for the price of one.

Newquay RNLI lifeboat was tasked on Saturday 4th August 2007 at 15:57 hrs to search for a man cut of by the tide at Bedruthan steps but diverted on return to rescue to lads caught in a rip.

The Newquay RNLI inshore lifeboats were tasked following a 999 call form a woman whose brother was cut off on the beach at Bedruthan Steps. Failing mobile signal meant it was sketchy as to the exact location.

The Atlantic lifeboat, Phyllis, helmed by Ian Jepson and the D Class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson with Nick Marr at the helm were swiftly launched.

As the lifeboats arrived on scene they were asked to stand off as St Merryn Coastguard team where able to lift the casualty to the top of the cliff. He was about 160 ft from the bottom of the cliff and it is not known if he was going up or coming down. The cliff rescue team safely recovered him up the cliff.

As the volunteer crews were returning to station the Ian and his crew were redeployed to another rescue off Whipsiderry beach. A 16 y.o. boy on a body board had been caught in a rip. His 21 year old brother had gone in to help him and also got in to difficulties.

With a heavy ground sea running, Ian asked the RNLI lifeguard on scene on his RWC (jet ski) if he could tackle the surf and pick up the casualties. The Atlantic lifeboat stood off. The ground sea proved too much for the RWC and the lifeguard ended up capsized in the water. As the lifeguard righted his vessel and swiftly recovered one of the casualties, Ian took his crew through the heavy surf to reach the second casualty.

On the approach to the casualty the lifeboat crew were swamped by heavy waves, sufficient to rip their visors off their helmets.

Both casualties were taken safely back to the beach.

On Sunday morning the lifeboats boats launched to escort Padstow RNLI’s Tamar Class lifeboat, Spirit of Padstow, into the harbour for lifeboat day. It was shortly after this that it became evident that there was a problem with Phyllis, the Atlantic class lifeboat. Phyllis is a RIB boat – rigid hull with inflatable sponsons (the blow up bits around the side). The crew had spotted that the sponsons were parting from the hull and bought her back to the harbour for the station mechanics to have a look.

It is thought that this damage was probably sustained on Saturday’s shout when the crew were rescuing two people from heavy surf. At one point the boat was completely swamped by heavy waves. The crew lost their visors off their helmets. This coupled with the fact that the last couple of months have included a lot of heavy sea work is suspected to have caused the damage.

So, at approximately 12:00 noon Sunday 5th August, the Atlantic lifeboat was taken off station. At the same time, an Atlantic lifeboat was dispatched by road from RNLI HQ in Poole. The relief lifeboat, Daisy Aitken was on station and ready to go at approximately 18:00 hrs. The RNLI’s back up relief fleet is on standby 24/7.

Atlantic Crew : Ian Jepson (helm), Kevin Walsh, Matt Robins, Christian Brown
D Class Crew: Nick Marr (helm), Tim Stokes, Ben Eglington

Tuesday, 31 July 2007

“Don’t sing for me silly….”

Newquay RNLI lifeboat crew were surprised to respond to people apparently indicating they were in distress to be offered a “tune on their guitar”

Newquay’s volunteer RNLI crew had been on the water for the Gannel gig race, an annual gig race from the Gannel to Newquay Harbour. At approximately 19:30 hrs on Tuesday 31st August 2007 the lifeboats had just returned to the harbour were recovering to the launching trailer when a local pleasure boat reported they had seen 2 people on Towan island waving, indicating as if they were in distress.

The D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, helmed by Ian Pengelly, swiftly relaunched.

On approaching the island Ian and his crew, Christian Brown & Michael “Sharkbait” Martin found the two adults were not in need of help but wanted to serenade the crew on their guitar.

Astounded, but assured of the singers’ safety the crew left them to contemplate their actions and await the out going tide.

D class crew: Ian Pengelly (helm), Christian Brown, Michael Martin
Atlantic crew: Nick Marr (helm), Kevin Walsh, Sean Taylor

Saturday 28th July 2007

Australia 0 Newquay RNLI 2

Newquay RNLI’s volunteer crew were astounded to find two adult Australians crammed into a toy inflatable made for one, when they launched this afternoon. Both Newquay lifeboats were called out following reports of two people floating offshore in a small dinghy. When the crews reached the scene the Australians, who weren’t wearing lifejackets, were off Pentire Point and their boat was full of water.

The two Australians who were both aged 25, were planning to paddle round the point and climb onto an island of rocks to have their lunch. Both were wearing wetsuits and said they were experienced in the water, but their tiny inflatable had caused people onshore concern. Both Newquay RNLI’s inshore lifeboats were launched, but the Atlantic, Phyllis, (crewed by volunteers Mark Sutherland (Helm), Rob Green and Eddie Burt) returned once it was obvious that the crew of the D class inshore lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, could deal with the incident.

In a westerly wind blowing force 3 to 4 and a moderate sea, the volunteer RNLI crew of Joe Emmett, Christian Brown and Ashley Mann, picked up the two men and dropped them ashore at Pentire.

Joe Emmett, volunteer RNLI Helm, says both Australians were very apologetic but said they hadn’t appreciated they might be doing something silly:

‘They seemed to think it was alright to paddle around in a tiny inflatable that was really only big enough for one. These boats are nothing more than toys and can be carried off by wind and tide very easily. They are certainly not designed to go to sea.’

‘Neither man was wearing a lifejacket so if there had been a problem with the boat they would have had to rely on their strength to swim back to shore. They said they were experienced in the water, but things can go wrong very quickly offshore and safety equipment can help you cope.

I hope they now realise the danger they could have been in and won’t make the same mistake again.’

It was the second emergency all of the day for the Newquay crew volunteers. Both lifeboats were launched at 2am following reports of a missing person. But they were stood down before reaching the water.

D Class Crew: Joe Emmett (helm), Christian Brown and Ashley Mann.
Atlantic crew : Mark Sutherland (Helm), Rob Green and Eddie Burt

Night Muster : Kevin Gee, Ian Jepson, Christian Brown, Michael Martin, Wayne Martin, Ross King, Ashley Mann, Nick Marr, Mark Morris, Stuart Wray.

Thursday, 26 July 2007

Lifeboat and lifeguards leap into action.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeguards and volunteer RNLI lifeboat crew leapt in to action at 17:00 hrs on Wednesday 25th July 2005 following reports of a speed boat in difficulties.

A speed boat had suffered engine failure just off Lamorna cove, Newquay and was being washed onto the rocks. With the boat caught in the back of the surf it was quickly swamped with water. The two men on board had no choice but to leave the boat and take their chances in the heavy surf. Once the men were in the water the boat flipped and for a short time they were trapped beneath it.

RNLI lifeguards on Tolcarne beach saw the speed boat in trouble. Having radioed Falmouth coastguard they then contacted RNLI lifeguards at neighbouring Great Western beach. Wes Roux, RNLI lifeguard at Great Western took to the water on his RNLI rescue water craft, (RWC). Meanwhile Falmouth coastguards also tasked Newquay’s inshore lifeboat to launch.

When Wes reached the casualties they had managed to get themselves from under the boat. Wes transferred them on his RWC and took them out beyond the surf to the waiting lifeboat.

The Atlantic lifeboat, Phyllis, helmed by Kevin Gee took the casualties back the lifeboat station, safe and well. The same could not be said for their boat which met its demise on the rocks of Lamorna cove.

Shortly afterwards, at about 17:30 hrs, RNLI lifeguard Wes Gordon rescued a surfer at Tolcarne beach in Newquay. The surfer got caught in a big set of waves and ended up on the rocks on the north end of the beach.

Wes had to be very careful as the surfer had suspected spinal injuries and a broken ankle. Assisted by a member of the public, Wes then got the injured surfer safely to the beach.

The RNLI lifeguards transferred the injured surfer to a spinal board to keeping him stable and avoiding making his injuries worse. A land ambulance then took him to hospital.

Paul Benney, RNLI Area Lifeguard Manager for Restormel says;

‘The two incidents today, illustrate how well the RNLI lifeguards and local RNLI volunteer lifeboat crew at Newquay can work together to provide a seamless lifesaving service. The different types of equipment and specialist training the crew and lifeguards complement each other in a rescue situation.’

Atlantic Crew: Kevin Gee (Helm), Joe Emmett, Michael Martin.
Lifeguards: Wes Roux, Wes Gordon

Wednesday, 18 July 2007

Double shout for volunteer crew

Newquay RNLI lifeboats launched at 18:50 hrs on Wednesday 18th July 2007 to assist with the rescue of two people cut off by the tide.

Falmouth coastguards had received a 999 call reporting two people cut off by the tide below the Barrowfields. The two teenage holiday makers had been caught unaware by the incoming tide.

The Atlantic lifeboat, Phyllis, with Kevin Gee at the helm and the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, with Howard Ramm at the helm were swiftly launched. The two lads were picked up by the D class lifeboat and taken back to the harbour.

The lifeboats were just being washed down when the services of the D class were needed again. A group of six lads had also been caught out by the tide and were trapped on Towan Island. With Kevin Gee at the helm, the Valerie Wilson and her crew rescued the lads and transferred them back to the beach.

Howard Ramm is not one of our usual crew. Howard is the RNLI TDI, Training Divisional Inspector and was at the station with Newquay’s Lifeboat Operations Manager for one of the regular training inspections of the volunteer crew. Proving that he can practice what he teaches, Howard eagerly took the helm of the D class with two of our regular crew accompanying him.

Atlantic Crew: Kevin Gee (helm), Michael Martin, Ross Trebilcock.
D class Crew #1: Howard Ramm (Helm), Kevin Walsh, Phil Cornes.
D class Crew #2: Kevin Gee (Helm), Kevin Walsh, Michael Martin.

Sunday, 15 July 2007

Search for missing angler.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboat launched at 05:05 hrs on Sunday 15th July 2007 to search for a missing angler.

Falmouth coastguards tasked Newquay’s inshore lifeboat in response to a 999 call. An angler was missing after an evening fishing near Porthcothan. The 50 year old holiday maker had left to go fishing at approximately 18:00 hrs on Saturday 16th July, telling his family he would be back by dark.

Newquay’s D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, was launched with Kevin Gee at the helm. The Newquay lifeboat crew accompanied by Padstow lifeboat and coastguard cliff rescue teams searched the area between Porthcothan beach and Treyarnon bay. With nothing found Falmouth coastguards stood the lifeboats and coastguards down at approximately 07:30 hrs with a view to recommencing the search at low water.

Crew: Kevin Gee (helm), Phil Cornes, Ben Eglington, Kevin Walsh

Thursday 12th July 2007

Another night at sea.

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats launched at 02:35 hrs on Thursday 12th July 2007 to help search for a missing 15 year old.

Falmouth coastguards tasked Newquay’s inshore lifeboats in response to a 999 call. A vulnerable 15year male had gone missing whilst out with his friends. Whilst walking along the road he had jumped over a fence and taken off across the golf course towards Fistral beach.

Newquay’s Atlantic lifeboat, Phyllis, helmed by Ian Jepson launched swiftly followed by the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, with Kevin Gee at the helm. They were directed to search from the Fly cellars, just outside the harbour around to Towan head, towards Fistral beach.

Conditions were relatively calm but visibility was poor. After exhausting their supply of illuminating para flares, the D class returned to station at 03:30 hrs for more flares and returned to the scene to continue searching.

At 04:00 hrs the lifeboats were stood down by Falmouth coastguard but requested to return to recommence at first light, approximately 05:20 hrs. The crew elected to remain at the station. The boats were refuelled and prepared to relaunch.

At 05:30 hrs the lifeboat operations manager was informed that the lad had just been found by the Coastguards, safe and well albeit cold and wet.

The volunteer crew returned to their beds to catch a nap before getting up for their day jobs.

Atlantic Crew: Ian Jepson (helm), Nick Marr, Phil Cornes & Kevin Walsh
D Class Crew: Kevin Gee (helm), Ross King & Christian Brown

Monday 2nd July 2007

Marathon rescue for Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats.

The Newquay RNLI lifeboats launched at 16:00 hrs to help search for a missing RNLI lifeguard and a female companion. At 00:40 hrs the Atlantic lifeboat was diverted to reports of something in the water off Constantine bay.

The RNLI lifeguard had gone to explore a cave only accessible at low tide between Mawgan Porth and Bedruthan Steps. When they became over due the RNLI lifeguards from Mawgan Porth commenced searching in the IRB, inshore rescue boat and on their PWC’s, personal water craft. Unable to locate the couple, Newquay’s RNLI lifeboats were tasked along with Newquay’s coastguard cliff rescue teams and a helicopter from RNAS Culdrose.

Newquay’s Atlantic lifeboat, Phyllis, helmed by volunteer crew member Ian Jepson and the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson helmed by Joe Emmett quickly joined the search. There was a huge sea and the tide was coming in.

At approximately 16:45hrs, the Padstow lifeboat, Spirit of Padstow was also tasked to join the search. The Newquay cliff rescue team was joined by St Merryn and St Agnes’ cliff rescue team. RNLI lifeguards were also on the cliff top assisting the cliff rescue teams.

At 19:51 hrs Newquay’s D class returned to station for a crew change, shortly followed by the Atlantic at 20:13 hrs. Nick Marr and Mark Sutherland took the helms of the Atlantic lifeboat and the D class respectively. The initial crew were sent home to refresh and warm up ready to return to the water if required.

As darkness fell the three lifeboats were forced to stand off the entrance to the cave where the casualties were thought to be in the hope that as the tide receded they would be able to make their way out. The area in front of the cave was littered with boulders and rocks making access by the lifeboat impossible through the heavy sea.

At 22:06 hrs Newquay’s D class returned to station for a crew change, followed by the Atlantic at 22:48 hrs. The original crew members were sent back out, this time with Joe and his crew in the Atlantic lifeboat and Ian and his crew in the D class.

At approximately 23:40 hrs the lifeguard was spotted in the water swimming towards the Padstow lifeboat. He was quickly taken on board and confirmed that the female casualty was in the cave on a ledge suffering from hypothermia. He was subsequently transferred to the shore in the D class lifeboat and taken to hospital via land ambulance.

Access to the cave was still impossible by lifeboat. Kevin Gee at the helm of the D class lifeboat collected two RNLI lifeguards and took them as close as he could to the entrance of the cave, where upon the lifeguards swam into the cave. The helicopter winch man was lowered to the cave and he, helped by the lifeguards brought the casualty out at approximately 00:55 hrs. She was winched to the helicopter and immediately transferred to the Royal Cornwall Hospital.

The D calls lifeboat was released from service at 01:35 hrs and returned to station. The state of the tide meant that lifeboat was recovered onto Towan beach and the bought back to station by road. The lifeboat had been on the water for over 9.5 hours.

At 00:40 hrs the Atlantic lifeboat was tasked to another shout off Constantine bay. A female was heard screaming in the water. The Atlantic lifeboat helmed by Mark Morris immediately proceeded to the scene where they searched until approximately 03:00 am when they were stood down by Falmouth coastguards. During that time an item of clothing was found in the water, the possible cause of the alarm.

The low state of the tide and heavy surf meant that the Atlantic lifeboat was forced to carry out a net recovery on Towan beach, nearly 12 hours after she first launched. Some of the crew had been at sea for over 8 hours – a long time in an ILB. The lifeboat was then transferred back to the harbour via the town roads. At 04:20 hrs the station doors were shut and the crew finally went home after a long 12 ½ hours.

Gareth Horner, Newquay RNLI lifeboat Operations Manager says:
"This was a fantastic team effort by all of the volunteer crew. The boats and their crew were at sea in very difficult conditions for a very long time. The shore crew remained at the boathouse for the whole 12 hours, refuelling the boats as they returned for the crew changes and finishing with difficult recoveries on Towan beach”

Atlantic Crew	D Class Crew
16:00 hrs – 20:13 hrs Ian Jepson (Helm) Kevin Gee Christian Brown	16:00 hrs – 19:51 hrs Joe Emmett (Helm) Mark Morris Ross King
20:30 hrs – 22:48 hrs Nick Marr (Helm) Kevin Walsh Michael Martin	20:00 hrs – 22:06 hrs Mark Sutherland (Helm) Adam Burt Tim Stokes
23:00 hrs – 03:13 hrs Mark Morris (Helm) Joe Emmett Ross King	22:10 hrs – 01:34 hrs Kevin Gee (Helm) Ian Jepson Christian Brown

Thursday, 28 June 2007

Crew mustered from slumber

Newquay’s volunteer lifeboat crew were called from their beds on Thursday 28th June 2007 at 01:15hrs.

At 01:10 hrs Falmouth Coastguard received a 999 call from a concerned member of the public. He had been on Towan beach with a friend. He had then lost the friend; last seen possibly heading in the direction of the water.

Newquay’s lifeboats launched with Kevin Gee at the helm of Phyllis, the Atlantic 75 lifeboat and Joe Emmett at the helm of Valerie Wilson, Newquay’s D class lifeboat.

The volunteer crew searched the area but there was no sign of anyone in difficulties. There were several people on the promenade above Towan beach and no one had seen anyone in difficulties in the water. Despite recent weather conditions the sea was sheltered and calm, assisting the search. At 01:45 hrs the crew were stood down by Falmouth Coastguards.

This was the first shout for Michael “Sharkbait” Martin who recently joined the crew on his 17th birthday. Another newbie was Stuart Wray, shore helper, launching the D Class lifeboat for the first time.

Stuart joins our volunteer crew of launchers - Graham Mountford, Wayne “Aggie” Martin and Mark “Wessie” Weston. The volunteer launching crew are behind the scenes, out of sight.

Many people do not appreciate the launcher’s role or even realise it exists. They see the lifeboat crew out at sea carrying out the rescue. Without the launchers there would not be a lifeboat on the water.

They have the responsibility of launching and recovering the volunteer lifeboat crew safely. At times the recovery tractor for the Atlantic lifeboat is almost completely submerged by breaking surf, very limited visibility, waiting to recover the lifeboat, I’d call that scary – but they do it to bring the crew home safely – team work.

So next time you see an RNLI volunteer crew member on the shore with a lifejacket on, give a thought as to what he may be doing next.

Atlantic Crew: Kevin Gee (Helm), Mark Morris, Ashley Mann
D Class Crew : Joe Emmett (Helm), Michael Martin, Andrew Trebilcock
Launchers: Wayne Martin (Atlantic), Stuart Wray (D Class)

Friday, 09 June 2007

Newquay RNLI standby.

Newquay RNLI’s D class lifeboat was tasked to “immediate readiness” at 11:00 hrs on Friday 8th June 2007.

Falmouth coastguards received a request from assistance from the police. A lady was at the top of the cliffs on Barrowfields threatening to jump. The police were on scene and trying to talk her away from danger.

The D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson and her volunteer crew, Simon Bennetts, Kevin Walsh and Ross Trebilcock, stood by at the waters edge in the harbour ready to launch should they be needed. A paramedic from the ambulance force was also donned a dry suit and lifejacket, ready to accompany the crew if they launched. The lifeboat remained in the harbour out of sight to avoid agitating the lady.

Thankfully a police officer managed to persuade the lady to change her mind and the lifeboat crew were stood down after approximately 90 minutes.

Sunday, 03 June 2007

Dawn muster for crew

Newquay RNLI lifeboats were tasked at 04:20 hrs on Sunday 3rd June 2007 following reports of a person cut off by the tide.

Just as dawn broke, the volunteer crew were paged to launch the lifeboats to assist in the rescue of a person cut off by the tide below the Barrowfields, between Tolcarne beach and Lusty Glaze.

As the ten volunteer crew arrived at the station they were stood down by Falmouth coastguard. The casualty had been helped to safety by the Newquay coastguard cliff rescue team.

Members of the public should be aware of the tides at all times – day and night. A simple stroll at the wrong tide state can swiftly turn into an emergency.

Crew: Graham Mountford, Wayne Morris, Tim Stokes, Mark Morris, Ben Eglington, Ashley Mann, Andrew Trebilcock, Ian Pengelly & Adam Burt.

Tuesday, 15 May 2007

Gannel search.

Newquay RNLI lifeboat’s volunteer crew were tasked at 15:50 hrs on Tuesday 15^th May to search for a missing person in the Gannel estuary.

An elderly gentleman had gone for an afternoon stroll. Concerns for his safety grew when he was over an hour late returning home.

Following a 999 call, Newquay RNLI lifeboat along with Police, Newquay Coastguards and a helicopter from RNAS Culdrose were all tasked to search for the gentleman.

Newquay’s Atlantic lifeboat, Phyllis, helmed by Ian Jepson, launched and commenced a sea search of the Gannel Estuary. All parties were stood down at approximately 16:25 hrs when the gentleman was found safe and well by the Newquay Coastguards.The man is believed to be 71 years old and a Newquay resident.

Not to be out done, the Newquay RNLI volunteer crew spotted a couple stranded by the incoming tide. Whilst the couple were safe, they were in for a long muddy cold wait. Our volunteer knights in shining armour took them aboard and transferred them to the safety of Penpol Creek.

Crew: Ian Jepson (Helm), Mark Morris, Garry Griffiths.

Sunday, 29 April 2007

To catch a kite…

Newquay RNLI’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat launched at 16:45 hrs on Saturday 28th April 2007 following reports that a surf kite was being blown off North Fistral beach.

Falmouth coastguards had received numerous 999 calls reporting that a surf kite was being blown out to sea. Most reports indicated that there was almost certainly no surfer attached.

Given the possibility that there may have been a kite surfer in difficulties and the hazard of a free running surf kite, the Atlantic lifeboat Phyllis was launched. Recovering the kite would also stem the flow of 999 calls.

Ian Jepson, helming the Atlantic lifeboat, quickly arrived on scene. Establishing that there was no surfer, the kite was put in the lifeboat and returned to the harbour.

Crew: Ian Jepson (helm), Tim Stokes, Phil Cornes

Thursday, 26 April 2007

Lamorna cove rescue.

Newquay RNLI’s D Class lifeboat launched at 11:25 hrs on Wednesday 25th April 2007 following reports of a person missing between Tolcarne beach and Lusty Glaze.

Newquay police had received reports that a lady was missing. She was thought to have been walking between Tolcarne beach and Lusty Glaze. With no sign of the lady on Lusty Glaze the police requested the assistance of the lifeboat and coastguard rescue team.

A Lusty Glaze lifeguard took to the water with his rescue board and another member of the staff went to the top of the cliff to see if he could see anything.

The lady was spotted flailing in deep water. The lifeguard reached her quickly and managed to pull her to the nearest sand in Lamorna cove. Just as they reached the shore, the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, helmed by Joe Emmett arrived on scene. Joe swiftly took the lifeboat through the surf and beached her on the sand. The crew ran to assist the lifeguard in getting the lady to safety above the water line.

The lifeguard assessed the lady’s condition and with the assistance of the lifeboat crew commenced CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation or kiss of life).

As Lamorna cove was inaccessible due to the high tide, a helicopter from RAF Chivenor was on exercise in the area offered their assistance. The casualty was transferred to the helicopter and taken to the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro.

The lifeguard was unable to make his way safely back to Lusty Glaze with no surfboard, the lifeboat crew dropped him back before returning to station.

Gareth Horner, Newquay RNLI lifeboat operations manager emphasises the importance or observing the tides:

“Newquay’s beaches are a great place to walk at low tide. However, the tide moves quickly and it is easy to get cut off. Wading through the swell is a risky business, one can easily be knock off balance by the power of the waves”

Crew: Joe Emmett (Helm), Rob Green, Ian Jepson

Tuesday, 17 April 2007

Volunteer RNLI crew members take to the water.

Newquay's RNLI lifeboats launched at 12:30 hrs on Tuesday 17th April 2007 when a fishing vessel broke her moorings.

The fishing vessel, Eclipse had broken her moorings and was caught aground in the surf on Towan beach. Newquay’s RNLI volunteer crew used their team work and expertise to successfully release the vessel from her sandy trap and return her to a safe (and secure) mooring.

Volunteer RNLI crew member, Joe Emmett was working in the harbour when he noticed that the Newquay registered fishing vessel, Eclipse, had broken free from her mooring and drifted into the surf on Towan Beach. There were no crew aboard.

Joe alerted the Harbour Master and DLA, Derek Aunger who immediately paged the crew. Joe donned his dry suit and life jacket and swam/waded out to the stricken vessel. It was a low incoming tide and the boat was being pushed in as the tide rose. Joe started the boats engine but was unable to move her from the surf.

Newquay RNLI’s Atlantic lifeboat, Phyllis helmed by Nick Marr and the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, helmed by Mark Morris were swiftly launched. Whilst the Atlantic 75 lifeboat stood back off the surf, the D class attempted tow, hoping that the combination of power from Eclispe and the D class would be sufficient to get her afloat. The surf was holding her fast.

Joe passed an anchor to RNLI volunteer crew men Mark Morris and Kevin Walsh who waded out and bedded it in the sea bed. The hope was that it would hold the boat head to sea and as the tide rose the boat would refloat.

Meanwhile, volunteer crew member Ian Jepson was out fishing nearby on his boat, Three Jays. Volunteer RNLI helmsman, Nick Marr, had already decided that the stricken vessel was too large for the Atlantic 75 lifeboat to safely pull out of the surf so Joe radioed Ian requesting assistance.

Ian bought his boat as close as he could and then dropped a tow line on a buoy. Volunteer helmsman Mark Morris left the D class lifeboat entered the water, collected the buoy and swam to the Eclipse thus passing the tow line to Joe.

With the tow rope safely secured and Mark back aboard the D class lifeboat, Ian gently applied the tow and utilising the rising tide the Eclipse was safely refloated and taken to a mooring. With the casualty safely secured the lifeboats returned to station.

Mark and Joe’s extensive RNLI training and experience as volunteer crew enabled them to assess the risk and realise that they were able to save the vessel safely.

Crew: Nick Marr (Atlantic Helm), Mark Morris (D class Helm), Tim Stokes, Christian Brown, Kevin Walsh, Garry Griffiths, Joe Emmett, Ian Jepson

Sunday, 15 April 2007

Surfer stuck in Stem

Newquay’s RNLI lifeboat launched for the third time in three days following reports of a surfer in difficulties near St Mawgan Porth.

At 13:45 hrs on Sunday 15th April 2006, Falmouth Coastguards requested the assistance of Newquay RNLI lifeboat following reports of a surfer washed onto the rocks in Stem Cove. The surfer had got into difficulties and been swept into the cove. With the only access in and out of the cove via sea, he was unable to make his way to safety.

The D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, with Ian Jepson at the helm, launched in heavy fog. Visibility was approximately 400m and at times the crew were unable to see the shoreline.

An RNAS Culdrose helicopter arrives on scene at the same time s the lifeboat. Form their vantage point they deemed the safest plan of action was to winch the surfer un to the cliff top.

The lifeboat stood by until the surfer was safely ashore and then Ian returned the lifeboat and her crew back to the station.

Crew : Ian Jepson (Helm), Tim Stokes, Rob Green.

Friday 13th & Saturday 14th April 2007

Pets in peril keep lifeboat busy.

The Newquay RNLI lifeboats were requested to launch on two successive days to assist dogs in difficulties.

Friday 13th April saw the first request from Falmouth coastguards following reports of a dog over the cliff at Polly Joke. The D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, was swiftly launched with Joe Emmett at the helm. Fortunately, as the boat entered the water the crew were stood down, the dog was safely ashore.

At 14:55 hrs on Saturday 14th April Falmouth coastguards requested the lifeboat assist in the rescue of a dog in the water at Crantock beach. The D class lifeboat was quickly dispatched with Joe at the helm again.

A dog had been washed off rocks near steps on West Pentire headland. When the lifeboat arrived at the scene they discovered that the dog had been swept into a long narrow cove near the steps. Unable to manoeuvre the lifeboat into the cove, volunteer crew man Tim Stokes, entered the water and swam through heavy surf to reach the dog. Sadly the dog had drowned. Tim then swam back to the lifeboat with the dog and it was transferred to the coastguards waiting on Crantock beach, they had the unenviable task of informing the owners.

The RNLI exists to save human lives at sea. The lifeboat launched to both of these incidents amid concerns that a concerned owner may risk their own life by entering the water to save a beloved pet.

Gareth Horner, Newquay RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager advises owners to keep pets under control at all times:

“If the worst should happen, do not follow your pet into the water or down a cliff. This was a nasty incident where someone has lost a family pet. If they had followed the dog into the water it could have easily resulted in the loss of both the dog’s life and the owner’s.”

Saturday’s Crew: Joe Emmett (Helm), Tim Stokes, Ben Eglington
Friday’s Crew : Joe Emmett (Helm), Ashley Mann, Ross King

Saturday 31st March 2007

Whipsiderry walk sparks search.

The Newquay RNLI lifeboats launched at14:50 hrs on Saturday 31^st March 2007following report of people cut off by the tide at Whipsiderry Beach.

A member of the public had called Falmouth Coastguards reporting sighting people cut off by the tide.

Newquay RNLI's Atlantic Lifeboat, Phyllis helmed by Eddie Burt and the D Class Lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, helmed by Mark Morris were quickly launched to the scene.

With the lifeboats searching from the water and the coastguards from the cliff top, nothing was found. After a short while someone reported seeing people matching the description of the casualties walking safely across a neighbouring beach.

Confident that there was no one cut off on Whipsiderry and that the people sighted were probably the cause of the 999 call the lifeboats were stood down

A false alarm with good intent.

Atlantic Crew : Eddie Burt (Helm), Nick Marr, Steve Ward
D Class Crew: Mark Morris (Helm), Ian Jepson, Tim Stokes

Friday, 30 March 2007

Quiet spell broken

The Newquay RNLI lifeboats launched at 09:40 hrs on Friday 30th March 2007 following a request for assistance from a fishing vessel with rope around her propeller.

A 30ft Crabber, Spirit of Cornwall, radioed for assistance when her propeller became ensnared in some rope. She was approximately 1 mile west of Towan head.

Newquay’s Atlantic 75 lifeboat, Phyllis, with volunteer crew member Mark Morris at the helm, launched to assist. When the lifeboat arrived on scene the casualty had managed to free herself from the rope but was still suffering from total loss of power and drifting.

Mark and his crew took the Spirit of Cornwall in tow back to Newquay. The casualty was secured on one of the moorings in the bay to await the incoming tide before returning to the harbour.

The year took of to a flying start with seven shouts in January and February. This was the first shout in March.

Crew: Mark Morris (Helm), Joe Emmett, Tim Stokes

Thursday 22nd February 2007

Van in Cliff tumble

The Newquay RNLI lifeboats launched at 13:35 hrs on Thursday 22nd February 2007 following reports of a van going over the cliffs at Bedruthan Steps

Following a 999 call, Falmouth Coastguard tasked the Newquay RNLI inshore lifeboat along with Culdrose’s R193 helicopter and the coastguard cliff rescue team. Newquay’s Atlantic lifeboat, Phyllis and D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson were launched with Ian Jepson and Joe Emmett at the helms.

On arriving at the scene, R193 had located the position of the van and directed the lifeboats to the middle of the beach. The lifeboats stood by in heavy surf until Falmouth Coastguards released them to return to station, confident that no one was in danger on the beach.

Third party reports indicated that there was no one inside the van. The cab was heavily crushed and the driver’s seat belt was fastened. It appeared that the vehicle had gone over the cliffs at speed and not tumbled down the cliff face.

Atlantic Crew: Ian Jepson (Helm), Steve Ward, Ross King
D Class Crew: Joe Emmett (Helm), Rob Green, Tim Stokes

Tuesday 20th February 2007

Surfers in difficulties

The Newquay RNLI lifeboat launched at 14:15 hrs on Tuesday 20th February 2007 to assist two surfers in difficulties.

Falmouth Coastguard had received a 999 call from a member of the public who had seen two surfers appearing to be caught in a rip at North Fistral beach

Newquay’s Atlantic 75 lifeboat, Phyllis, was quickly launched with Nick Marr at the helm.

When the lifeboat arrived at Fistral bay they found the two surfers. The surfers were quite safe and unaware that they had sparked the rescue. They had not been in difficulties. A false alarm with good intent.

The lifeboat returned to station. Due to the low state of the tide and the heavy surf on Towan beach the lifeboat was recovered into the net. Usually the lifeboat reverses onto the trailer so she is in the correct position for launching. Heavy surf makes it difficult to reverse the lifeboat onto the trailer, so a net is used. The lifeboat drives onto the trailer and is stopped by a net. Once back on dry land the boat has to be taken off the trailer and turned around so she is ready for the next launch.

Crew: Nick Marr (Helm), Ian Jepson, Rob Green

Saturday 17th February 2007

Body boarder sparks search.

The Newquay RNLI lifeboats were launched on Saturday 17th February to search for a body boarder in difficulties

Members of the public had seen a body boarder in difficulties on Towan beach. He had then been observed trying to make his way around Towan Island. Concerned for his safety they dialed 999.

At 17:35 hrs Falmouth coastguard requested that the Newquay RNLI lifeboats launched to assist with the search. R193 helicopter and the coastguard cliff rescue teams were also scrambled.

The light was failing, there was a Northerly Force 4 wind, and a 2 m swell breaking onto the shore. This combined with high tide made conditions difficult for the lifeboats to get close in to the shore.

Initially, the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, was launched with Joe Emmett at the helm. As the lifeboat, helicopter and cliff rescue teams searched they could find no sign of the casualty.

999 calls were still being received by the Coastguards. At 18:50 hrs, the Atlantic lifeboat, Phyllis, was also launched with Nick Marr at the helm.

At approximately 19:30 hrs, with the D class having been at sea for over 1 ¾ hours, the crew were feeling the effects of the cold and battering sea. Joe requested a crew change, Ian Jepson took the helm.

At about 19:40 hrs a surfer who had been on Great Western beach came in to the lifeboat station. He had seen a body boarder come around from Towan and leave the water on Great Western shortly after the lifeboat had launched. He had no idea that the two events were connected. After the surfer had finished his surfing session he then discovered that the body boarder was probably the casualty. This information was relayed to Falmouth Coastguards who then called off the search.

The search was difficult as the sea conditions prevented the lifeboat getting in close to the shore. There was also a lot of debris churned up by the sea – beer barrels, nets, buoys, this combined with the failing light led members of the public to call in with potential sightings.

Assured that all were safe and well, the crew quickly changed in to their DJ’s and headed off for a knees up at the Newquay RNLI lifeboat’s annual dinner dance.

Crew: Joe Emmett (D Helm), Ian Jepson (D Helm), Nick Marr (Atlantic Helm & D Crew), Andrew Trebilcock, Tim Stokes, Ross King, Phil Cornes.

Saturday, 27 January 2007

Moo-ving rescue

The Newquay RNLI D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, launched at 11:00 hrs on Saturday 27th January 2007 to recover the carcass of a cow.

A dead cow had been spotted floating in the water just off the north quay of the harbour. Whilst the primary aim of the RNLI is to save lives at sea not to recover dead animals, it was felt that the carcass presented a hazard to vessels in the area. Also, the carcass would have presented a health risk if it had washed ashore. Several of the crew were around the harbour area and at the request of the environmental health officer, the decision was made to launch to recover the carcass.

Volunteer helmsman Mark Morris along with his crew attached a rope to the cow and towed her back to the harbour. The cow was left tethered in the harbour waiting for the Environmental Health officers to arrange disposal.

It is unknown where the cow came from, the carcass was very bloated indication it had been in the water for a few days. There are reports of sightings of another two carcasses.

All the C’s – so far this year Newquay RNLI lifeboats shouts have involved a Christmas tree, a catamaran, a car and a cow.

Crew : Mark Morris (helm), Steve Ward, Rob Green

Thursday, 25 January 2007

Car in cliff tumble

The Newquay RNLI lifeboats launched at 17:43 hrs on Thursday 25th January 2007 following reports of a car driving over a cliff.

Falmouth Coastguards requested the assistance of the Newquay RNLI lifeboats when a member of the public dialed 999 having seen a car drive over the cliff near Huers Hut, Newquay. A small hatch back car had traveled approximately 30ft down an embankment and then over a 20ft cliff drop on to the rocks below.

On arriving at the scene the crew could see the car up-ended on its boot, a female was thigh deep in the water clinging to the drivers side door.

Nick Marr at the helm of the Atlantic lifeboat, Phyllis, deemed it too dangerous to take the boat in close to the cliff base but recognised that the D Class would need the assistance of some of his crew. Volunteer crew members Tim Stokes and Christian Brown were transferred to the D Class to assist helmsman Joe Emmett and his crew.

Joe maneuvered the D class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, in close to the cliffs, Sean Taylor and Rob Green entered the water to recover the lady to the lifeboat. Joe then went back to the Atlantic lifeboat to collect additional crew, Christian & Tim, and dropped the in the water to assist Sean and Rob. This left the lifeboats with only helmsmen aboard, Nick decided that with four crew and the casualty in the water more crew were needed.

Andrew Trebilcock, Ross King, Adam Burt and Phil Cornes were already at the boathouse having responded to the initial page. They donned their dry suits and lifejackets, by this time the crew in the water had managed to transfer the lady into the D class so Nick radioed that their help was not needed at the scene but they would be required to assist when the boat came back to the harbour.

Paramedic Crews were ready at the waters edge when the D class lifeboat returned to the harbour. After they had carried out an initial assessment of the lady’s condition she was put on a spinal board, transferred to the ambulance and onwards to the Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro. She was conscious through out and had suspected head and leg injuries.

The Coastguard Cliff rescue team were on scene and the Atlantic lifeboat stood by whilst they assessed the situation to ensure that the car was going to remain on the rocks and not present a danger to fishing vessels. The Padstow RNLI lifeboat, Spirit of Padstow, out on exercise, attended and offered help, they stood by.

Sunday 14th January 2007

Second Shout of 2007 for Newquay RNLI Lifeboat

At 13:25 hrs on Sunday 14th January 2007 Newquay RNLI lifeboat was tasked to assist the catamaran, Mischief, in difficulties in Newquay bay.

A member of the public had been watching the catamaran and became concerned with it remained capsized for over 30 minutes. They immediately called Falmouth Coastguard who requested the assistance of the Newquay RNLI lifeboat.

The D Class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson was quickly launched with Kevin Gee at the helm. The casualty was taken in tow and bought back to the harbour.

The catamaran, Mischief and her owner have previously been rescued by the Newquay lifeboat in similar circumstances. In February 2006 this boat was assisted four times on one Sunday, twice by the lifeboat and twice by a local fishing vessel. Ironically, last years shout was also the second launch of the year for the Newquay lifeboat.

Crew: Kevin Gee (helm), Adam Burt, Tim Stokes

Sunday 7th January

Festive feel to first launch for 2007

Shortly after 10:00 am on Sunday 7th January the Newquay RNLI lifeboats diverted from training to investigate reports of a surfer in difficulties.

Falmouth Coastguards had received a call from a member of the public who had seen what appeared to be a surfer in difficulties. The surfer was thought to be about 300m off Tolcarne beach and waving, indicating they required assistance.

Newquay’s Atlantic Lifeboat, Phyllis, helmed by Kevin Gee was already at sea on exercise and quickly diverted to the scene. The D Class lifeboat, Valerie Wilson, helmed by Ashley Mann was in the process of launching when the call came in. Launcher Laurence Pascoe, swiftly put the D Class and her crew in the water.

A search of the area found no trace of a surfer in distress. However it did reveal a Christmas tree bobbing around. By this time the Police were on Tolcarne beach and Kevin was able to establish by radio that the Christmas tree was in the right proximity to have been mistaken for a casualty. Confident that this was the casualty, the Christmas tree was duly recovered and returned to the harbour.

A false alarm with good intent.

Whilst this shout may have bought a smile to a lot of people’s faces, if the people who called the emergency services had thought this was a Christmas tree but it had turned out to be a surfer, the results would have been far from humorous.

Members of the public should always call for help if they believe that someone needs assistance. Also, please dispose of Christmas trees and other waste responsibly – you never know where it may end up.

RNLI statistics show that in 2006 lifeboats responded to half a garden shed, a suitcase, inflatable dolphin and a wheely bin and unconfirmed rumours say that an "inflatable sex toy" has been rescued in the past - whatever next!

Atlantic Crew : Kevin Gee (Helm), Nick Marr, Kevin Walsh (holding tree)
D Class Crew: Ashley Mann, Tim Stokes, Garry Griffiths.

Shouts 2006

Newquay RNLI aids fishing vessel

Newquay RNLI’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, launched at 13:20 hrs on Saturday 9th May to assist a fishing boat with fuel problems.

Fishing vessel, Tizzardlyon had suffered fuel filter problems 9 miles west of Towan headland and was unable to effect a repair. However, another fishing vessel, Loyal Partner, had an identical set of spare filters aboard.

16 November 2008 Newquay 029 2008

24 October 2008 Newquay 026 2008

Newquay RNLI volunteers were tasked on Friday 24th October 2008 at 14:20 hrs BST to assist three people cut off by the tide on Towan Island, just outside the harbour.

Sunday, 03 June 2007

Newquay RNLI’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Gladys Mildred, launched at 13:20 hrs on Saturday 9^th May to assist a fishing boat with fuel problems.

Newquay RNLI volunteers were tasked on Friday 24^th October 2008 at 14:20 hrs BST to assist three people cut off by the tide on Towan Island, just outside the harbour.