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29 July 2010
Newquay RNLI lifeboats paged but stood
down
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.
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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 fis hing
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 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.
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
24th October 2008 at 14:20 hrs BST to assist three people cut off
by the tide on Towan Island, just outside the harbour.
.JPG)
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.
.JPG)
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”
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.
#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 8th
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 15th 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
Pictures
© Bernie White
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 31st
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
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