Concerns for 2 people on a paddleboard off the south coast of the Island prompted a coastguard response this afternoon (Tuesday).
Solent Coastguard tasked Ventnor Coastguard Rescue Team following a 999 call from a concerned member of the public after spotting 2 paddleboarders half a mile South West of Steephill Cove drifting.
A search was carried out by Coastguard Rescue Officers along the coast, starting at Ventnor, working their way towards St Catherines Lighthouse.
Initially, nothing untoward was found. However, they relocated further West towards Binnel Bay at St Lawrence before moving onto St Catherines in Niton.
It is thought the paddle boarders were travelling in a clockwise direction around the Island.
The support from Sandown & Shanklin Independent Lifeboat was later requested to conduct a shoreline search; they located the paddleboarders South West of Atherfield.
After speaking to the persons on board, it was confirmed that they were both well and circumnavigating the island; safety advice was issued by the lifeboat crew.
A spokesperson for Ventnor Coastguard Rescue Team has this evening said:
“Many thanks to the 999 caller who did the right thing – if you plan to make long distance trips on sea contact Solent Coastguard and report your traffic”
If you or someone else is in difficulty on the coast or at sea, or if you spot what you think may be unexploded ordnance, then dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard. Further safety information can be found at https://coastguardsafety.campaign.gov.uk/.
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Well done again to all our rescue people xxx
Probably stupid holiday makers who think about nothing else other than enjoying themselves…..even if it does mean risking life
A little unfair, madam. I expect they were essential workers brought over from the Mainland, to save us in our hour of need, who just happened to have paddle boards, croc shoes, North Face jackets and Ray Bans tied to the roof of the car when they answered the call of duty. In their ‘off watch’ from the Covid ward at St. Mary’s, or some other important post they have told our stalwart ferry services and air b’n’b owners that they have, why blame them for going for a bit of a dip or, indeed, dragging their gangly, whining, and very bored children around estate agents. Most unfair! These people are definitely not holiday makers, they all belong here. My great aunt Fanny!