Lifeboat Crew Battles Choppy Seas To Rescue Man Trapped By Rising Tide

Fowey RNLI lifeboat crew rescued a man who became cut off by the tide on Polmear Island between Charlestown and Duporth.

The crew launched an inshore lifeboat on Monday 13 July after receiving a tasking request following reports of the stranded man. The rescue took place in a fresh easterly wind of 17 to 21 knots and choppy sea conditions.

The lifeboat approached the rocks while the crew planned the safest access point. Helm Boris maneuvered close enough for crew member Oli to jump onto the rocks and reach the casualty.

Oli escorted the man back to the drop-off point, where the casualty was given a lifejacket. Both then returned from the rocks to the lifeboat and were taken safely to Charlestown Harbour. The man was not injured.

St Austell coastguard personnel were also on standby at the top of the cliff with ropes in case the lifeboat was unable to reach the casualty.

Fowey RNLI volunteers said people should always check tide times and heights, watch for incoming tides, carry a way to call for help, and contact emergency services if they are in danger or see someone else at risk.