RNLI volunteer swims to rescue group trapped on Dorset beach

Trio was stranded by rising tide near Lyme Regis on New Year's Eve

A pinch point on the Dorset coast
Author: Richard MuriePublished 1st Jan 2026

A volunteer from the RNLI has had to brave the chilly New Year's Eve waters and swim to the rescue of a group of people stranded on a Dorset beach.

The trio were cut-off by rapidly rising tides close to Lyme Regis on Wednesday.

Two managed to carry on their walk, but a third needed help to do so and that meant a dip in the sea for crew member Andrew Barker.

Andrew said, "There are a number of places along this stretch of coast where it is very easy to become cut off by the tide. The cliffs are unstable, with frequent falls which create pinch points which are impossible to cross. If you are in any doubt about your ability to make it to safety always dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard."

HM Coastguard also attended the incident and made sure other people at risk of getting stuck as the sea came in were safe.

RNLI Lyme Regis say the New Year's Eve callout was their 40th one of the year.

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