Struggling surfer rescued off Chapel Porth
The surfer had been spotted waving his hands and pointing
RNLI lifeguards, and a crew from the St Agnes lifeboat team have been tasked to rescue a struggling surfer at Chapel Porth.
It happened at the northern cut off on April 27, where the surfer had been spotted waving his hands and pointing, alerting RNLI lifeguards at Chapel Porth beach in Cornwall that he required immediate help.
When the lifeguards arrived on the scene, it was confirmed that the surfer had experienced some difficulty in a rip current off Chapel Porth and was being taken further around the headland towards Tubby’s Head.
The surfer was brought to shore, where he was assessed over at Trevaunance Cove.
Seasonal Lifeguard Supervisor, Drustan Ward said: "The surfer did absolutely the right thing by raising his arm for help, alerting the lifeguards to the fact he needed some assistance. The rip currents at Chapel Porth can become very strong, so we urge people to take extra care and know what to do if you get stuck."
With an increase in visitors to beaches expected as we head into the Early May Bank Holiday weekend, the RNLI is urging the public to choose a lifeguarded beach where possible. Currently Sennen, Porthmeor, Perranporth and Fistral have lifeguards on patrol this week, with more beaches opening on Saturday 3 May.
Gareth Morrison, Head of Water Safety for the RNLI said: "With the warm weather forecast this week, we want to remind everyone to stay safe when visiting the coast. Whilst the air temperature will be high, water temperature remain dangerously cold.
"If possible, choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags.
"If you get into trouble in the water, Float to Live; tilt your head back with ears submerged and try to relax and control your breathing. Use your hands to help you stay afloat and then call for help or swim to safety if you can. It's OK if your legs sink, we all float differently.
"In any coastal emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard."