Injured surfer rescued from Bantham - and then another was spotted

Kingsbridge Coastguard Rescue Team, Hope Cove Lifeboat and Salcombe RNLI were all tasked to "a surfer in distress" at Bantham. 

The rescue teams were called at 4.45pm on Thursday, 10 October, by Falmouth Coastguard to reports of a surfer in distress at Bantham. 

Emily Lawrence, RNLI

When crews arrived, the surfer had been helped to the shore by fellow surfers. 

Crews checked the surfer over and he was taken to hospital by family members for further treatment. 

When the team were getting ready to finish up, they spotted another surfer getting caught up in a strong rip current. 

A spokesperson for Kingsbridge Coastguard Rescue Team said: "With this team members donned water rescue PPE and made their way down onto the beach to prepare for an immediate rescue. Thankfully a passing surfer was able to provide advice and the casualty was able to return to the safety of the shallows.

"With nobody further in distress the team packed down, and retuned to station. 

"We want to thank the member of the public who spotted the surfer, and did the right thing by calling 999 for the Coastguard. We also want to commend the surfers who helped the injured casualty out of the water.

"Our colleagues RNLI Lifeguards South Devon are only patrolling on weekends, 10am-6pm, at Bantham. So if you see anyone in distress dial 999 and ask for the coastguard. 

"We wish the casualty a speedy recovery."