2 people who became stranded on a small patch of beach just east of Freshwater Bay after their paddleboards capsized were rescued in a technical operation between Freshwater Independent Lifeboat and multiple Coastguard teams yesterday afternoon (Friday).
Freshwater Independent Lifeboat have taken to social media to announce what they have described as ‘possibly our quickest launch turnaround to date’.
It is said that crews were paged at 12:23 and out on the water just 5 minutes later at 12:28, when the search for 2 paddleboards who had capsized and become trapped in a cave commenced.
The pair had taken shelter in a cave located just east of Freshwater Bay. However, with high tide and surf engulfing the shoreline, the lifeboat crew were unable to beach their vessel and so called in teams from the Needles and Ventnor Coastguard to aid in the recovery.
At this point, crew member Jack entered the water, where he swam along the stretch of coast to locate the casualties; it has been said that prior to this, from both land and sea, crews were unable to find them.
Jack successfully located the pair and got to work providing care where needed.
Due to the remote location, the incident was swiftly handed over to the 2 Coastguard teams, who carried out a technical cliff rescue where a mechanical pulley and winch were set up to hoist the casualties up the vertical cliff face.
Both paddle boarders were safely recovered from the small patch of rocky shoreline and are reportedly well.
The independent Lifeboat took to Facebook to say:
“Thankfully, both casualties were safely recovered and are well.
“A great example of teamwork between all the teams involved.”
