Bridlington Coastguard, Filey Coastguard and Flamborough RNLI assist two paddle boarders who were stranded in a hazardous area between North Landing and Flamborough Lighthouse.

At 5pm on July 3, the emergency services received reports that two paddle boarders were in difficulty between North Landing and the Lighthouse.

Flamborough's all-weather lifeboat, Forever Yibba (B-959), launched at 5.05pm, marking the vessel's first service launch, and made best speed to the scene.

On arrival, the volunteer lifeboat crew found the two paddle boarders had managed to scramble ashore but were stranded in a small cove in a hazardous area. A dangerous swell made conditions extremely challenging and, due to the sea state, the lifeboat was unable to safely recover the casualties from the shoreline.

On July 3, Bridlington Coastguard, Filey Coastguard and Flamborough RNLI were tasked to assist two paddleboarders in distress. Credit: Bridlington Coastguard.

placeholder image — On July 3, Bridlington Coastguard, Filey Coastguard and Flamborough RNLI were tasked to assist two paddleboarders in distress. Credit: Bridlington Coastguard.

Meanwhile, Coastguard Rescue Teams searched from the cliff top to locate the casualties and assess the safest method of rescue. Specialist rope rescue equipment was deployed and preparations began for a cliff rescue.

Further information confirmed that both casualties were becoming cold and distressed. Following this update, the Coastguard Officer in Charge requested the assistance of Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 912.

While awaiting the helicopter's arrival, Forever Yibba remained on scene, standing by in case the situation changed and ready to assist if required, while Coastguard Rescue Teams remained positioned on the cliff top above the casualties.

The Coastguard Rescue Helicopter quickly arrived on scene and assessed the situation. The helicopter's winchman was lowered to the casualties, who were each secured in a rescue strop and winched safely, one at a time, to the cliff top, where they were met by the Coastguard Rescue Teams.

It was the first call out for Flamborough RNLI's new lifeboat Forever Yibba (B-959).

Both casualties were assessed, found to be safe and well and, although understandably shaken by their ordeal, required no further medical treatment.

With the rescue complete, Flamborough Lifeboat returned to station at 6.40pm.

Flamborough RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager Captain David Freeman said: "The new boat performed very well on its first service launch, and I was extremely pleased with the quick response from our volunteer crew.

“While the conditions were challenging, the teamwork between the volunteer lifeboat crew, HM Coastguard, and Rescue Helicopter 912 ensured a successful outcome."

A Bridlington Coastguard spokesperson said: “This incident serves as an important reminder to anyone heading out onto the water. Before setting off, always check the weather and sea conditions, wear appropriate clothing and safety equipment for your activity, and ensure you have a means of calling for help if things don’t go to plan. Being properly prepared can make all the difference.

“If you see someone in difficulty at the coast, or you find yourself in trouble, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”