St Ives Lifeboat Rescues Paddle Boarders in Distress Near St Ives

In a commendable act of prompt response and community service, the St Ives Lifeboat volunteer crew was mobilised on a rescue mission at midday. The operation was set into motion following an alert received about two paddle boarders facing difficulties approximately half a mile north of St Ives head. The distress signal, initially spotted by the St Ives NCI Station, prompted an immediate response from the lifeboat station’s crew.

Led by Senior Helm George Deacon, the volunteer team launched the Inshore Lifeboat (ILB) ‘Donald Dean’ into action. Demonstrating swift navigation and coordination, the crew reached the reported location in a timely manner, where they found the two individuals struggling against the elements, unable to make their way back to shore.

Upon reaching the paddle boarders, the crew conducted a quick assessment, confirming that while the boarders were not injured, they were indeed in a precarious situation due to their inability to return to shore on their own. The lifeboat crew then proceeded to provide the necessary assistance, ensuring the safety and recovery of the two individuals by escorting them back to shore.

Following the successful rescue operation, the ‘Donald Dean’ ILB was promptly returned to the boathouse. There, the dedicated crew undertook the routine but crucial task of washing down and preparing the lifeboat for future service, ensuring readiness for any subsequent emergencies.

This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable nature of water-based activities and the importance of being well-informed about the specific challenges of the chosen location. The St Ives Lifeboat station emphasised the significance of understanding local conditions, such as tidal currents, which can greatly impact safety and enjoyment on the water.

The lifeboat station also reminds the public of the importance of vigilance on the water and urges anyone witnessing individuals in distress to immediately contact the coastguard by dialing 999. For those engaging in water-based activities, the RNLI offers a wealth of safety tips and advice available at rnli.org/safety, aiming to enhance the safety and experience of water enthusiasts.

This rescue highlights the vital role played by volunteer lifeboat crews in ensuring the safety of those enjoying the coastal and marine environments, demonstrating once again the community’s reliance on their bravery and expertise.