RNLI responds to concerns for swimmer in Newquay
Lifeboat crews and Coastguard helicopter were called to search
Lifeboat crews and the Coastguard helicopter responded to concerns for a swimmer in Newquay on Friday.
RNLI volunteers launched both the inshore lifeboats on Friday evening (16th April) after a member of the public called 999 to report a swimmer in difficulties in the sea at Fistral Beach.
The boats left Newquay Harbour at 6.25pm and searched the length of Fistral Bay in calm seas and a light south easterly wind, alongside the Coastguard search & rescue helicopter and Newquay Coastguard rescue team.
After searching the whole area and consulting with the first informant, the Coastguard believe the swimmer had got safely out of the water around South Fistral.
Satisfied that the call was a false alarm with good intent and that nobody was in difficulties on this occasion, the RNLI volunteers were stood down by the Coastguard and returned to the lifeboat station shortly after 7pm.
Gareth Horner, Newquay RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager said:
"With a busy year expected on local beaches, if you see someone in difficulties at the coast, don't hesitate to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
"Our RNLI volunteers and emergency services colleagues would always rather respond and confirm everyone's safe."