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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