Two sea swimmers who became separated from a group swimming from Talland to Polperro were rescued by Looe RNLI volunteers and taken to Polperro.

Yesterday evening (Wednesday) two swimmers, from a group of 16, swimming from Talland to Polperro contacted Falmouth Coastguard Operations Centre to report they were in difficulties and other members of the group were also in need of assistance.

The calls came in at around 8.40pm whilst the RNLI volunteer crew, on the charity’s D Class inshore lifeboat Ollie Naismith, were out in Whitsand Bay on a training exercise. Diverting the crew to the incident’s location, Lifeboat Operations Manager Dave Haines paged a second crew to launch the Atlantic 85 Sheila and Dennis Tongue II. Arriving on scene at Downend Point, just to the east of Polperro, the crews found the two swimmers who were in difficulties.

One of the swimmers had made it ashore onto rocks to contact the coastguards. Both said they were exhausted and struggling to make any headway against the current and prevailing wind.

The pair were helped on board the Atlantic 85 and taken to Polperro to be reunited with the rest of the group. After confirming all the swimmers were safe and accounted for, the lifeboats were stood down. The inshore lifeboats returned to station where they were washed down and refuelled ready for service by 10pm.

During the pandemic, open water / sea swimming has become a popular activity, but also has significant risks. The RNLI and our crew have the following advice:

If it is your first time -

Discuss with a health professional the risks of cold water immersion

Always go with a buddy, so you can look out for each other

Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return

Choose your spot

Check if there are any hazards?

Is the area lifeguarded?

Be aware of rip currents

Are there safe places to exit the water along the route?

Check the weather and tides

What are the tides and currents doing?

When will it get dark?

Be prepared to change plans or cancel if not safe

Have the right equipment

Wetsuit

Wear a bright colour swim hat and take a tow float

Carry a whistle to attract attention.

In an emergency -

Do not panic, remember float to live

Contact the coastguard via VHF Radio or 999.