Newquay RNLI Lifeguards to Feature on BBC’s Saving Lives at Sea

Lifeguards at Crantock beach will once again be in the national spotlight as their rescue of a bodyboarder caught in a rip current is set to be featured on the BBC’s Saving Lives at Sea.

The episode will air on Thursday 18th September at 8pm on BBC Two and will also be available on BBC iPlayer.

Rescue at Crantock Beach

The rescue unfolded when a bodyboarder was suddenly swept out of his depth by a powerful rip current. His nephew quickly raised the alarm, alerting RNLI Lifeguard Harry Reed and Senior RNLI Alexandros Gkosime.

Acting fast, Alexandros launched the Rescue Water Craft with Harry on the sled. With an outgoing tide, strong rip current and offshore wind creating hazardous conditions, the pair navigated the difficult waters before locating the casualty.

They managed to bring him safely back to shore, where he was reunited with his family.

“Outstanding Job”

RNLI Lead Lifeguard Supervisor for Newquay, Lewis Timson, praised the efforts of his colleagues, saying:

“We are excited to see that the team who provide safety patrols at Crantock feature again on this season of Saving Lives at Sea. It is a real testament to how incident heavy the beaches in Newquay can be for our lifeguard teams. Rescues involving rip currents make up the majority of rescues carried out by RNLI lifeguards, and this rescue demonstrates the quick thinking and preparedness required by our lifeguards. Alexandros and Harry did an outstanding job, and we are very proud of them.”

Lifesaving Work on Screen

This will be the second time Crantock lifeguards have featured and the third time for Newquay lifeguards on the tenth season of the programme.

The series showcases real RNLI rescues from across the UK and Ireland, offering unique insight into the lifesaving work of lifeguards and volunteer lifeboat crews.

The episode highlighting the Crantock rescue will be broadcast on Thursday 18th September at 8pm on BBC Two and available on BBC iPlayer

📷Senior RNLI Lifeguard Alexandros Gkosime - Credit: RNLI/Nathan Williams