Milford Haven Coastguard Coordinate Rescue of Six People

Milford Haven Coastguard dealt with two simultaneous incidents involving the rescue of six people this evening as three divers in Aberystwyth and three adults on a cliff at Lindsway Bay all found themselves in need of rescue.

 

The first 999 call came in at 7pm from a member of the public reporting five divers in difficulty 400 metres off the shore at Aberystwyth. The divers had been caught in a rip tide and were being swept out to sea. Milford Haven Coastguard called Aberystwyth Coastguard Rescue Team and Aberystwyth Lifeboat as well as requesting Rescue Helicopter 122 from RAF Valley in the event that the divers might need medical attention. Two of the divers made it ashore themselves and the other three were rescued by the lifeboat. The helicopter was stood down and the divers were checked over by paramedics.

 

The next 999 call came in at 8pm reporting that three young people were stuck on the cliffs at Lindsway Bay in Pembrokeshire. The group of three – two male and one female – had been walking along the beach when they had become cut off by the tide, attempted to climb up the cliffs to safety and become stuck. Milford Haven Coastguard sent Coastguard Rescue Teams from Dale and Broadhaven, as well as the Preseli Coastguard Sector Manager, the Angle lifeboat, fire rescue boat and Rescue 169 helicopter from RAF Chivenor. All three people were winched into the helicopter along with a fireman involved in the rescue and placed safely onto the cliff top.

 

Barry Skidmore, Watch Manager Milford Haven Coastguard said: It has been a busy evening for Milford Haven Coastguard but we are pleased to report that all those in difficulty have been rescued safely and without requiring medical assistance.

 

In both incidents the 999 calls to the Coastguard were very helpful and thorough and the information given meant that rescue resources were able to be despatched quickly and accurately.

 

If you are planning any kind of coastal activity always be aware of the hazards of the local area such as rip tides and strong currents, and make sure you check the tide times.

 

For further details contact:
The Maritime & Coastguard Agency Press Office
023 8032 9401