CHECK WEATHER AND CONDITIONS BEFORE YOU SET OUT URGES SWANSEA COASTGUARD

Swansea Coastguard is urging members of the public to check weather and sea conditions and to heed safety warnings following a number of incidents today where weather was a contributory factor.

Two kayakers were reported as being trapped against a headland at Porlock, Minehead this afternoon. Minehead Coastguard Rescue Team and RNLI lifeboat went to investigate. When they arrived, they found the two kayakers on the beach, exhausted by the conditions but otherwise unharmed. The two were escorted off the beach

An hour later Lynmouth Coastguard Rescue Team assisted nine people who had become stranded on the coastal path due to the severe wind, the party were escorted off the coastal path and to safety.

A skipper attempted to refloat his vessel which was beached at Cefn Sidan Sands. Despite being advised against this, due to adverse weather conditions, the man continued and spent some hours in his attempt. Lifeboats stood off to ensure his safety and the man was eventually persuaded to leave his vessel having failed to refloat it.

A kitesurfer was taken to hospital after sustaining a neck injury near Westward Ho!

 Steve Matthews Swansea Coastguard Watch Manager says:

“The autumn weather seems to have hit us early this year and with winds gusting up to severe gale force 9 in our area today, we would like to urge members of the public to check conditions before they set out and not to take risks.”


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