WITH the warm weather drawing crowds to the coast, Bude’s RNLI lifeboat has been working hard to keep people safe.

On May 25 and 26, the crew at Bude’s RNLI lifeboat were called into action on a number of occasions. Firstly, at 6.50pm on May 25, the team was tasked to a bodyboarder reported to be in difficulty in the surf at Northcott Mouth. Shortly after launching, the crew were stood down, however the lifeboat continued towards the area carrying out a preventative patrol towards Sandymouth before returning to station. Local surfers assisted the casualty safely back to shore before the crew arrived.

The next morning, the crew were once again out and about this time paged to reports of two bodyboarders in difficulty at Crooklets Beach at 9am. Whilst making their way to the station, the crew were stood down after members of the public and local water users helped the casualties safely ashore.

Despite a quieter morning, later in the day whilst undertaking routine training, the crew were alerted to a casualty who had sustained a head laceration after being struck by a surfboard. Casualty care was provided by RNLI volunteers before the individual was transferred to local A&E for further assessment.

A spokesperson from the Bude RNLI lifeboat crew said: “These incidents highlight just how quickly conditions can change in the water and how important it is to look out for one another along our coastline.

“A huge thank you to the local surfers and members of the public who assisted those in difficulty and raised the alarm quickly. Early intervention and quick thinking can make all the difference.

“If you see anyone in trouble at the coast, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard immediately. Where possible, always choose a lifeguarded beach and take advice from local lifeguards before entering the water.”