One person was found unconscious and submerged in the water at a beach in Newquay during an incident in which eleven people were rescued.
The rescue took place on Sunday, August 30 near the mouth of the Porth River and Porth Beach. RNLI lifeguards were alerted to a large group of people in distress after they moved beyond the red and yellow flags into an area with stronger currents and deeper water.
The group of eleven beachgoers faced challenging conditions caused by strong currents, large swells, spring tides and increased river flow following recent rainfall.
Lifeguard Harry Barea reached a group far offshore, where one casualty had become submerged, unconscious and unresponsive. He provided immediate assistance and brought the casualty and two others safely ashore. Once on the beach, the casualty lost consciousness again and required emergency care while additional support from HM Coastguard and the ambulance service was requested.
RNLI lifeguard Louis Harris entered the water and reached a nearer group of swimmers. He used his rescue board to support them before bringing eight casualties to safety. Lifeguard Elodie Sykes also swam out with a rescue tube as part of the coordinated effort.
All eleven casualties were safely recovered from the water, with one person handed over to paramedics for further assessment. A member of the public on a foil surfboard also helped by bringing one casualty back to shore.
RNLI senior lifeguard Dave Kelly said: ‘This was a significant and complex incident involving a large group of swimmers who got into difficulty in challenging conditions.
‘The teamwork shown by the lifeguards was outstanding. With strong currents, deeper water and a large number of people involved, this incident could have ended very differently.
"The quick actions, professionalism and training of the lifeguard team played a vital role in achieving a positive outcome."
The RNLI is reminding beachgoers to check local safety advice before entering the water and to always carry a means of calling for help where possible. If you see someone in difficulty in the water, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
RNLI Lifeguards Rescue 11 in Newquay Beach Distress