MISSING KAYAKER FOUND DEAD IN ESSEX

Following an overnight search on the Essex coast a missing kayaker was found deceased this morning at Bradwell.

At 3am Thames Coastguard was contacted by Essex Police who had received a call from the kayaker’s partner reporting that he was overdue after going out kayaking the previous afternoon between 2 and 4pm. .  

Thames Coastguard launched a search of the area, involving Burnham and West Mersea RNLI lifeboats, South Woodham Ferrers Coastguard Rescue Team and Eseex Police and Essex Ambulance Service.  Shore searchers were also attempting to locate his vehicle in order to better pin point the starting point of his trip.

The man was found early this morning by a walker on the coast at Bradwell and was pronounced dead at the scene by Essex Ambulance Service paramedics.  He was 59 years old and from the Burnham On Crouch area.

Aimee Rampton, Thames Coastguard Watch Manager said,

“HM Coastguard recommends that you don’t go out alone in a small craft like a kayak.  Secondly, it is vital that you give full details to a shore contact including your starting point for the trip, where you are going and when you will be back.

There was a big squall which came through the area on Monday afternoon, severe enough to cause a problem to even experienced kayakers.  Sadly, you cannot always predict conditions at sea even when they appear benign when you set off.”



-Ends-
 Notes to Editors

1.      Carrying a VHF radio on your vessel is vital and VHF DSC (Digital Selective Calling) is strongly recommended. Ensure your radio equipment is fully working and you know what to do in an emergency. With DSC you can send a distress alert along with your exact position, with one touch of the button. The distress alert  is repeated every four minutes until it is acknowledged either by a Coastguard Station (Ship to Shore) or by a vessel (Ship to Ship) within radio range.
  1. Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) numbers are programmed into a DSC radio set and an MMSI is issued as part of your radio licence application, via Ofcom. It consists of a series of nine digits, which are used to uniquely identify the radio on your vessel.

  1. The MCA is a partner in the Sea Vision UK campaign to raise awareness and understanding of the sea and maritime activities.  Sea Vision promotes the importance and economic value of the sector and works to highlight the exciting range of activities and career opportunities available to young people within the UK growing maritime sector. www.seavisionuk.org

  1. Stay safe - before heading out on the water get trained, check weather and tides, wear a lifejacket, avoid alcohol and keep in touch

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