Cornwall lifeguards given bravery awards for saving eight lives in one rescue
The RNLI team have been recognised for their determination, selflessness and lifesaving skills
Six RNLI lifeguards from south east Cornwall have received awards for saving the lives of eight people in challenging sea conditions.
The lifeguards awarded received a Chief Executive Certificate recognising their determination, selflessness and lifesaving skills during a rescue at Whitsand Bay in August 2020.
The rescue saved the lives of eight casualties who were caught in a rip current, including children and teenagers.
RNLI lifeguard supervisor Beau Gillett and lifeguards Tristan Gillett, Ed Sampson, Matthew Holt, Sophie Conway and Andy Wrennell were presented their awards by RNLI Area Lifesaving Manager James Millidge on Wednesday (12th October).
Charlie Gillett, RNLI Lead Lifeguard Supervisor for south east Cornwall, said: "Both Beau and Tristan showed excellent leadership skills and trust in their team. Their quick decision making under pressure resulted in the casualties being rescued very soon after they were in danger.
'Collaboration of selflessness and courage'
"The size and strength of the swell was challenging for all of the lifeguards involved and the IRB helm and crew showed excellent skill and determination to negotiate the surf and pick their path through the water, especially with such a strong wind and the increased risk of capsizing.
"Matt demonstrated excellent lifesaving skills and strength swimming out through the surf and Andy’s awareness and response time whilst off-duty shows great courage and selflessness.
"Sophie’s communication and quick response was crucial, and she made some important decisions under immense pressure which helped the whole team and made sure members of the public remained safe and out of the water whilst the incident was unfolding.
"All six lifeguards demonstrated excellent lifesaving skills in triaging the eight casualties, supporting them until back-up arrived. A collaboration of selflessness, courage and trustworthiness".
The lifesaving rescue took place on Thursday 20th August 2020 on Tregonhawke beach, Whitsand Bay, on a busy day with strong winds and swell.
It was after lifeguards spotted a group of bathers drifting out of their depth in a sudden rip current that had formed near the red and yellow flags.
In total, six RNLI lifeguards had quickly and safely rescued eight casualties. Due to the conditions worsening on the incoming tide, the whole beach was subsequently red flagged.
James Millidge, RNLI Area Lifesaving Manager said: "It was a great pleasure to be able to present our lifeguards with these thoroughly deserving awards. This rescue came right in the middle of an exceptionally busy summer season in 2020, when our lifeguard teams were frequently pushed to their limits keeping beach goers safe.
"It was a great pleasure to be able to present our lifeguards with these thoroughly deserving awards. This rescue came right in the middle of an exceptionally busy summer season in 2020, when our lifeguard teams were frequently pushed to their limits keeping beach goers safe.
"It is testament to their skill, their training and their professionalism that they worked so effectively as a team to ensure everyone was brought back to shore safely. The charity couldn’t be prouder of their courage and determination, and I am honoured to have been able to give them these awards in recognition of this".