What's On in Lyme Regis  Your  Guide to Events and Organisations

Royal National Lifeboat Institute  (RNLI)
 

        Lyme Regis Lifeboat Station & Shop
        and Lyme Regis & Charmouth Lifeboat Supporters
 

Lyme Regis Lifeboat Station has a crew of some 30 men and women volunteers from all walks of life including builders, carpenters, students, decorators, an accountant, a developer and retired businessmen.

Led by the Duty Deputy Launching Authorities, (DLA's) under the supervision of the Lifeboat Operations Manager (LOM).

Launches are initiated and co-ordinated by MCA. Every station member is on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Lifeboat Press Officer:  Richard Horobin

Normally carrying a crew of four the rigid inflatable is launched and retrieved by a Ro-Ro trailer and special tractor unit.
 

Lyme Regis  RNLI volunteer crew members operate an 8.5m Atlantic 85 class inshore lifeboat capable of speeds up to 35 knots. The Spirit of Loch Fyne  arrived on station in March 2012. 
She is fitted with the latest technology including radar and VHF direction finding equipment and carries a crew of four.
The Atlantic 85 can operate safely in daylight in a Force 6/7 and at night in Force 5/6 and is fitted with two 115hp Yamaha engines and has endurance at sea of three hours at maximum speed. 
Lyme Regis Lifeboat  Station, The Cobb, Lyme Regis,   DT7 3JJ  Tel:  01297 442230

Lifeboat Station Opening Times:  9am-5pm daily  Currently closed due to Covid 19 regulations

 

Latest News and Shouts

20th October  2020                                        

Charmouth Christmas Day swim...a statement from the RNLI fund-raising group, the Lyme Regis and Charmouth Lifeboat Supporters.

 “Because of the distancing restrictions and general safety issues which will almost certainly still be in place, the Lyme Regis and Charmouth  Lifeboat Supporters will not be fund-raising at the Charmouth Christmas Day swim this year.

“Throughout these difficult times the RNLI’s priorities have been the effective delivery of a life saving service and the welfare of our volunteer crew members. Sadly, this means our crew and fund-raisers will not be supporting the Charmouth Christmas Day swim this year.

“The crew does, of course, remain on stand-by for calls for assistance from anyone in difficulty at sea.

“So far this year the RNLI volunteers in Lyme Regis have answered 41 calls for help.”

11^th  October 2020                                         

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat crew launch after report of clothes found on beach

The volunteer crew of the RNLI lifeboat in Lyme Regis launched today (Sunday) after a report from an onlooker that a swimmer could be in trouble in the sea off Charmouth.

The alarm call to  coastguards followed the discovery of clothes on the beach. However, it was later established that the clothes belonged to a man safely swimming nearby and he needed no assistance.

Coastguards had requested the lifeboat crew to launch at 2.41pm and they were stood down some twenty minutes later.

This was the 41^st call for help answered by the Lyme Regis volunteers so far this year and it was recorded as a false alarm with good intent.

5^th October 2020                                            

Lyme Regis RNLI launched to grounded vessel

Lyme Regis lifeboat launched this morning (Monday) at 10.30am to a report of a small boat grounded at PinhayBay.

HM Coastguard notified Lyme Regis volunteer lifeboat crew to respond to a report of an 18ft Dory type boat that had drifted ashore on Humble Point  between Lyme Regis and Seaton. The vessel, with no-one aboard, was reportedly originally from Teignmouth harbour and had suffered serious damage to the hull and it appeared that the anchor was no longer attached.

The crew ensured there were no floating items in the water that could be of danger to other users and returned to the lifeboat station.

The lifeboat crew returned to Lyme Regis at 11.30am. This was the 40^th emergency call answered by the Lyme Regis RNLI volunteers so far this year.

4^th October 2020

Kicking a hole in one for the RNLI

A local businessmen Gary Davies has raised nearly £300 for Lyme Regis RNLI. Gary runs Lyme Regis Footgolf and set up a hole-in-one challenge to raise money for the lifesaving charity.

Walking the Liberty trail for the RNLI

Two men, Nick Perry and Mark Farrell both 34 and friends who live in Yeovil have walked the Liberty Trail. Nick has been keen to walk the trail from some time and was finally successful, completing the 28-mile trek from Ham Hill to Lyme Regis.

The Liberty Trail is based on the stories of some of the men who joined the Monmouth Rebellion. In the early summer of 1685 villagers from throughout Somerset and Dorset were making their way to the coast at Lyme to join the Duke of Monmouth. He was expected to land at Lyme to lead a rebellion against the King with the rallying call of 'Liberty to the People of God'.

The two men carried nearly £500 in £1 coins to donate to members of Lyme Regis RNLI.

27^th September 2020                                     

Harbour Voices sing for the RNLI

A group of Lyme Regis sea shanty singers have presented a cheque for £850 to the volunteers at the town’s RNLI lifeboat station.

The donation was raised during performances by the 20 strong group known as Harbour Voices who specialised in songs of the sea.

The group was recently disbanded and re-formed as Lyme Bay Moonrakers.

Treasurer of the singing group Steve Coles, who presented the cheque to  Lifeboat Operations Manager Nick Marks, said: “We had a vote to decide who should get the donation and the RNLI came out on top by a long way.”

Lyme Bay Moonrakers have already agreed to perform at the Blessing of the Boats annual service at Lyme Regis lifeboat station on May 9 next year.

Anyone interested in joining the singers should contact carmel@coastalgroup.uk.

25^th September 2020                                     

Drifting windsurfer rescued by Lyme Regis RNLI crew

A windsurfer in difficulties half a mile off Seaton was rescued today(Friday) by the volunteer crew of the Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat.

The lifeboat was launched at 2.25pm following reports of a man falling into the water from his drifting craft in strong winds.

The windsurfer, who was unhurt, was picked up by the lifeboat crew and taken  to Seaton beach where he was met by local coastguards.

The lifeboat crew returned to Lyme Regis at 3.06pm. This was the 39^th emergency call answered by the Lyme Regis volunteers so far this year.

19^th September 2020                                     

Lyme Regis lifeboat crew rescue two women drifting offshore

Two women on a kayak and paddleboard were rescued today (Saturday) by the volunteer crew of the RNLI’s Lyme Regis lifeboat.

The lifeboat crew were contacted by HM Coastguard to a report of two women that were drifting away from the shore at Lyme Regis. Volunteer crew launched just after midday and were guided in the direction of the women by the Lyme Regis Harbour Masters team.

The two women, aged 30 & 31 from Winchester and London, one of whom was pregnant, had intended on enjoying a leisurely time at sea however the winds from the north east were stronger than expected and the two of them were blown offshore. They realised very quickly that they were in trouble and they called family ashore who notified the coastguard.

The lifeboat crew were alongside the two women 6 minutes after launching, both on their kayak and paddleboard, they were wet and cold but otherwise safe. The wind had blown the two women approximately 1 mile south of Lyme Regis. Volunteer crew took the women aboard the lifeboat and returned to Lyme Regis lifeboat station where they were met by coastguards and given safety advice.

The lifeboat crew returned to Lyme Regis harbour approximately 30 minutes later.

Jon Broome, helm of the lifeboat said “This weekend is host to some high spring tides and strong north easterly winds, it is very important that anyone going to sea have the appropriate equipment to contact the coastguard if necessary. These two women were incredibly lucky today, but because one of them had a mobile phone so they were able to call for help.”

This was the 37^th time that Lyme Regis lifeboat has launched this year.

It is advisable that anyone near or on the sea this weekend check the weather and tides before heading out.

If you see anyone in trouble in or on the sea, call 999 and ask for the coastguard.

14th September 2020

Rescue of two sailors by Lyme Regis lifeboat crew to feature in BBC series

The rescue last summer of two ex-professional sailors by the volunteers of Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat is to feature next week in the BBC 2 series Saving Lives At Sea.

The rescue, in August last year, will feature in the second programme in the new series to be screened at 8pm on Thursday September 24^th.

The sailors, Sam Brearey, from Canterbury, and Christian Birrell, from London were training for a national sailing championships when their dinghy capsized in strong winds 500m south of Lyme Regis harbour.

The forestay – a rope supporting the mast – broke and their vessel capsized throwing both men overboard.

Both men were in the water when the lifeboat crew arrived on scene.

Sam Brearey said at the time: ”Despite all the experience we have both gained, if the forestay goes you have a major problem. We were very pleased to see the lifeboat crew; they were brilliant at working together to recover us and our boat.”

September                                           

Council worker Kyle,25, joins the Lyme Regis lifeboat volunteers

Volunteers with the RNLI in Lyme Regis have welcomed aboard their newest sea-going crew member, 25 year old Kyle Knight.

Kyle, a maintenance operative with Lyme Regis Town Council,  went to sea on his first ‘shout’  when two kayakers were reported in trouble off Axmouth.

Dorchester-born Kyle said: ‘I thoroughly enjoyed my first shout . I have always loved the sea , and joining the Lyme Regis RNLI seemed the natural thing to do. It was great to get my first shout under my belt.’

Kyle had been training for just over a year.

Murray Saunders, who was at the lifeboat helm for Kyle’s first shout, said:’ Kyle will be an asset to our sea-going team. He is very keen and showing a good deal of promise.’

Lyme Regis Town Council now has two members of staff on the lifeboat team. The local authority’s Operations Manager Matt Adamson-Drage is a DLA – Deputy Launching Authority

Lyme Regis Lifeboat Shop re-opening

Lyme Regis lifeboat shop is due to re-open on Saturday 5^th September and the volunteer staff are looking forward to welcoming customers once again through the doors. The RNLI shop adheres to all COVID-19 advice following a full Risk Assessment:
Only 1 person/1 social bubble allowed at any time.
Card payment preferred but cash accepted.
All Christmas cards, calendars and diaries are now in stock....plus lots more!
The hours of opening will be slightly reduced to available volunteers but will be open on a daily basis.

Lyme Regis lifeboat launched to divers in trouble nearly 20 miles south

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat was launched this morning at 10am (Monday 31^st August) to assist HM coastguard with a vulnerable person near Burton Bradstock.

The local coastguard team were also on scene and they were able to deal with the person. The volunteer lifeboat crew were then tasked to a report of persons in the water and a dive boat in trouble 19.5 miles south of West Bay.

As the lifeboat crew arrived on scene it was clear all three people were safe and well aboard the dive boat and managed to get the engine working and then returned to West Bay harbour.

The lifeboat returned to Lyme Regis by 2pm

27^th August 2020                                            

Lost portrait of a ‘hero’ presented to Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat crew

A 50 year old pencil portrait of a much-decorated Lyme Regis lifeboat crew member has been presented to the town’s RNLI volunteers by the artist’s grandson.

Mark Shephard’s grandmother, Camille Moore, lived in Yawl, Uplyme, when she is believed to have drawn the portrait of John Hodder during an art class at Woodroffe School in the 1970s.

Mr. Shephard kept the portrait in the loft of his home in Godalming, Surrey, but when he saw the name John Hodder on the back,  and the obvious signs that the subject was a lifeboat crew member, he decided to contact the RNLI.

Mr. Shephard said: ‘My grandmother was a very keen artist, and I have other examples of her work. It seemed only right that the portrait should come home to the RNLI in Lyme Regis.’

Mr Hodder, 76, was unable to attend the presentation, but said: ‘I am very grateful to Mr Shephard for his donation of the portrait and would like it to remain at the lifeboat station as a reminder of my years of service with so many superb colleagues.’

Mr. Hodder served with the RNLI in Lyme Regis for 20 years and was recognised for several acts of courage during rescues at sea. Crew members who served with Mr Hodder were known as ‘Hodder’s heroes.’

20^th August 2020

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat launched to 70yr in the water

Lyme Regis lifeboat launched this morning (Thursday 20^th August) to a report of a person in the water in rough seas off Freshwater beach, near West Bay.

Lyme Regis lifeboat volunteer crew responded to a call from the Coastguard to a report of a person in the water near Charmouth. It was not known whether the reported 70yr old female was conscious or not.

The volunteer crew were contacted by the Coastguard at 11.15am to assist, due to the high winds and rough seas, approximately 15 minutes later the crew had arrived on scene to find that the reported person had been recovered by concerned lifeguards from the nearby holiday park. The casualty was checked over by the ambulance crew.

The call came from a member of the public who spotted the suspected casualty. This was the 35^th call out for Lyme Regis lifeboat this year.

The RNLI and HM Coastguard are urging people to visit lifeguarded beaches and take extra care on Friday and Saturday as forecasts predict dangerous sea conditions, involving large swells, strong winds and spring tides.

Across exposed coastal areas in Devon and Cornwall, current forecasts for Friday and Saturday are predicting wave heights between 6-9 feet coupled with strong south westerly winds across the region. These conditions, alongside large spring tides, can result in a dangerous sea state and increase the risk of strong rip currents. If you see a red flag at a lifeguarded beach, do not enter the water, as it is unsafe for any water activities. If there are no flags, there are no lifeguards.

If you see someone in trouble at the coast, call 999 and ask for the coastguard

13th August 2020                                          

Lyme Regis lifeboat launched after report of two in trouble on inflatable

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat was launched  at 12.54pm today (Thurs) following reports of two people in difficulties on an inflatable 600m off Freshwater Bay.

As the lifeboat crew arrived on scene it was clear the two people were safe and well and being assisted by the West Bay harbourmaster’s launch.

Coastguards then stood down the Lyme Regis lifeboat crew. This was the 34^th call for help for the volunteers of Lyme Regis lifeboat so far this year.

11^th August 2020                                            

Lyme Regis lifeboat launched in search for missing man

The volunteer crew of Lyme Regis lifeboat answered their 33^rd call for help this year to assist coastguards in the search for a man described as ‘vulnerable.’

 The lifeboat launched at 10-15 last night (Mon), conducted a shoreline search and provided a communications relay for coastguards searching the cliffs just east of Axmouth.

Coastguards later found the man on the cliffs, but because of his location the coastguard helicopter was called, and the lifeboat crew were stood down.

The lifeboat crew returned to Lyme Regis at 1.30am

9^th August 2020                                              

Lyme Regis lifeboat crew rescue two on drifting inflatable

Two men on a partially deflated inflatable dinghy were rescued tonight (Sun) by the volunteer crew of the RNLI’s Lyme Regis lifeboat.

The lifeboat was launched at 8.32pm following reports of an inflatable dinghy drifting a mile east  of the car park at Abbotsbury.

At 9.01pm the lifeboat was alongside the dinghy and the two men, wet but otherwise safe, were taken on board and landed at Abbotsbury where they were met by coastguards and given safety advice.

The lifeboat crew returned to Lyme Regis harbour at 10.10pm.

This was the fourth emergency call dealt with by the Lyme Regis lifeboat crew over the weekend and the 32^nd so far this year.

8^th August 2020                                              

Lyme Regis lifeboat crew rescue two men on drifting dinghy

Just as the crew of Lyme Regis lifeboat arrived back today after assisting a fishing boat taking on water they were alerted to two men drifting on an inflatable dinghy three miles offshore at Abbotsbury.

The men were in danger, drifting on a strong current, and were taken on board the lifeboat with their dinghy. They were safe and well and taken by the lifeboat to Abbotsbury where they were met by local coastguards.

As the volunteer crew of the Lyme Regis lifeboat, Spirit of Loch Fyne, were returning again  they were told of a call from Freshwater beach about a woman possibly in difficulty on an inflatable. But the caller, who first rang the lifeboat station, did not follow up with a call to the coastguards.  The lifeboat crew found no trace of the woman and a search was called off. This call was recorded as a false alarm with good intent.

8^th August 2020                                              

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat called to fishing boat ‘taking on water’

The volunteers of the RNLI lifeboat in Lyme Regis were alerted by coastguards at 9.15a.m. today after a fishing boat was reported to be taking on water off Seaton in Devon.

One lifeboat crew member boarded the 17 foot fishing boat, the Rosie Lee, using a salvage pump.

Finally, the fishing boat, with two people aboard,  was able to sail under its own power and was escorted by the lifeboat crew to the safety of Lyme Regis harbour, arriving at 11.20a.m. This was the 29^th call for help answered by the Lyme Regis lifeboat volunteers so far this year.

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat called to assist ‘lifeboat’

The volunteer crew of the RNLI’s lifeboat in Lyme Regis answered an emergency call yesterday…..to go to the aid of a lifeboat.

A former ship’s lifeboat, once capable of carrying 50 people, was reported drifting with engine problems off Seaton beach. The old lifeboat, named Gryphon, with four men aboard,  was  on sea trials when the alarm was raised by coastguards at 3.55pm.

The Gryphon was later able to sail under its own steam and was escorted by the RNLI crew to the safety of Lyme Regis harbour arriving at 5.20pm.

3^rd August 2020                                              

Lyme Regis lifeboat crew launched to ‘three cut off by tide’

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat crew launched today to assist the local fire and rescue service following reports that three people – two adults and a child – had been cut off by the tide between Broom Cliffs and St Gabriel’s Steps east of the town’s harbour.

The lifeboat crew were on scene at 3.20pm but by 3.26pm  it was established that the group could not be located and the lifeboat team were stood down. This was the 27^th call for help answered by the Lyme Regis RNLI volunteers so far this year.

2^nd August 2020                                             

Anglers rescued by Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat crew after launching flares

 Two anglers were rescued by the volunteer crew of the Lyme Regis  RNLI lifeboat last night (Sat)  after they accidentally ran their boat ashore on Chesil Beach.

The men, cold and wet, were stranded on the beach when the lifeboat crew arrived.

Lifeboat crew member Tom Crabbe said: ‘Somehow  the mens’ boat – a rigid inflatable – had filled with water when it was apparently beached accidentally and both men had been in the water. They were cold and wet but otherwise seemed ok  and certainly had plenty of safety equipment.’

Among their safety equipment were red flares which the men launched to raise the alarm.

Coastguards ashore had guided the lifeboat towards the men on the beach,

The men were taken to Abbotsbury aboard the lifeboat where they were met by coastguards. The lifeboat crew then towed the rigid inflatable to West Bay harbour.

The alarm was raised at 7.19pm and the lifeboat crew finally arrived back in Lyme Regis at midnight.

24^th Juy 2020                                     

Lifeboat launched to two kayakers overboard

The RNLI’s volunteer crew of Lyme Regis lifeboat answered their 25^th call of the year today following reports that two kayakers had fallen overboard 100 yards east of Axmouth harbour.

Coastguards alerted the crew at 1.06pm and the lifeboat launched ten minutes later.

The two men swam to safety and were ashore when the lifeboat crew arrived on scene.

The lifeboat crew returned to Lyme Regis harbour 32 minutes after launching.

13 July 2020                                      

Lyme Regis lifeboat called to Kayak and two children

Lyme Regis lifeboat launched yesterday (Sunday 12^th July) at 7.30pm to a report of a lady with her two children on a kayak drifting out to sea.

The husband contacted the coastguard who was concerned that they were drifting out to sea, she was reported to be approximately ½ mile south of Golden Cap. The lifeboat crew were on scene 10 minutes after launching and contacted the lady who was not in any trouble. The lifeboat offered to stay with her to see that she arrived safely, but she declined the request.

The lifeboat crew were stood down, having launched at 7.30pm, and returned to Lyme Regis harbour at 8.00pm.

 5 July 2020 

Second ‘shout’ for lifeboat crew to report of  man cut off by tide

For the second evening running the volunteer crew of the Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat launched today following reports of a man cut off by the tide between Lyme Regis and Charmouth.

The man, said to be dressed in black and carrying a rucksack, later disappeared on the cliffs from the view of coastguards ashore and the lifeboat crew.

The lifeboat crew were stood down, having launched at 6.30pm, and returned to Lyme Regis harbour at 7.40pm.

4^th July 2020                                      

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat launched to man cut off by tide

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat crew launched this evening following reports of a man cut off by the tide at Black Ven east of the town’s harbour.

Two members of the lifeboat crew went ashore to assist the man in their inflatable X-boat, which is used when the large lifeboat cannot get close inshore because of sea conditions.

However, the man was later airlifted to safety by the coastguard helicopter, which landed him on the town’s football pitch.  He was reported to be unhurt.

The lifeboat volunteers were alerted at 6.09pm and returned to Lyme Regis harbour at 7.50pm.

29 June 2020                                     

Lifeboat launched to kayaker’s distress call

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat crew launched today after a kayaker  accidentally activated a distress alert on his smartphone.

The kayaker was half a mile south of the town’s harbour when the alert was received by coastguards and had paddled ashore when the volunteer lifeboat crew arrived.

Lifeboat helm Murray Saunders said: “It was a false alarm with good intent, and the kayaker deserves full credit for being safety conscious and using a distress system.

“I don’t think he even knew he had accidentally set it off in his pocket and he was very apologetic.”

26 June 2020                                     

Lifeboat crew called to teenager drifting on inflatable

The volunteer crew of Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat were called out last night (Friday) following a report of a teenager drifting on an inflatable near Church Beach east of the town’s harbour.

When the lifeboat arrived the youth managed to get ashore by himself and was met by local coastguards who gave him safety advice.

The lifeboat crew launched at 8.22pm and returned to Lyme Regis harbour at 8.46pm.

25^th June 2020                                               

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat launched to broken down boat outside the harbour entrance

Lyme Regis lifeboat launched yesterday afternoon (Wednesday 24^th June) to a report of broken-down boat just outside the harbour entrance off North Wall.
Lyme Regis lifeboat volunteer crew responded to a call from the Coastguard to a report of a broken boat outside the harbour entrance.

The volunteer crew were contacted by the Coastguard at 6.55pm to assist the local Lyme Regis coastguard team to recover the broken boat, the lifeboat launched at 7.04pm and were on scene very quickly! The people who were reported to be test driving launched at West Bay, stopped in Lyme Regis and were heading back to West bay when the boat lost all drive. The five people aboard disembarked onto North Wall and a coastguard team member boarded the stricken leisure boat. The lifeboat crew set up an alongside tow and took the boat back into the harbour.

The lifeboat returned to Lyme Regis and was ready for service by 7.30pm.

If you see someone in trouble at the coast, call 999 and ask for the coastguard

15^th June 2020                                               

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat launched to paddleboards

Lyme Regis lifeboat launched yesterday afternoon (Sunday 14^th June) to a report of four persons on two paddle boards in need of assistance off Eype beach.

Lyme Regis lifeboat volunteer crew responded to a call from the Coastguard to a report of four persons in trouble a way off Eype beach near Bridport, one of them was 9-year-old without a buoyancy aid.

The volunteer crew were contacted by the Coastguard at 4.50pm to assist, the lifeboat launched 6 minutes later, and the crew were on route towards Eype beach. On arrival, the lifeboat crew discovered that two people on kayaks assisted the paddleboarders back to the beach, everyone was safe and well.

The lifeboat returned to Lyme Regis and was ready for service by 5.30pm.

1^st June 2020

Lyme Regis lifeboat launched this evening to a boy in trouble at Seaton

Lyme Regis lifeboat launched this evening (Monday 1^st June) at 6pm to a report of a boy in trouble after jumping in the harbour entrance of the river Axe in Seaton.

The lifeboat crew were contacted by the coastguard requesting an immediate launch, volunteer crew were quick to launch and were soon on their way to Seaton. On route they heard from the coastguard that the boy was taken ashore by a member of the public who was paddle boarding.

The young boy required first aid attention and the local Beer coastguard team were able to perform this prior to the ambulance crew arriving.

The lifeboat crew and coastguard helicopter from St. Athan were standing by but the ambulance crew ashore kept the boy stable and he was taken to hospital for further checks.

The lifeboat returned to Lyme Regis harbour about 7pm.

Lifeboat Helm Murray Saunders said: “We launched as quick as safely possible as we have been to incidents at the river mouth previously. It is important for people to understand the dangers of the rivers and sea but if you do see someone in trouble in or near the sea, call 999 and ask for the coastguard.”

30 May 2020

Eight rescued by Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat crew as speedboats run aground

Eight people, adults and children from two families, were  rescued by the volunteer crew of Lyme Regis lifeboat today after both their speedboats ran aground at Black Ven east of the town.

The lifeboat crew towed both boats and those aboard back to the safety of Lyme Regis harbour where the families were spoken to by local coastguards.

Lifeboat senior helm Tim Edwards said: “When we arrived on scene we found that both speedboats had run aground, disabling their gearboxes and their engines.”

The lifeboat launched at 2.40pm and the rescue operation ended at 4pm.

29^th May 2020

Lyme Regis lifeboat launched this afternoon to a missing dinghy

Lyme Regis lifeboat launched this afternoon at 2.30pm to a report of a dinghy sailor missing from Lyme Regis sailing club. He was reported to be near Charton bay.

The lifeboat crew were contacted by the coastguard immediately after launch to a separate incident to a report of an upturned kayak and two people in the water at Beer, nr Seaton. The lifeboat passed Charton bay on the way to Beer and noted the missing sailor. On arrival at Beer, the two young men reported to have been in trouble were back on their kayak albeit still upturned! The crew ensured they were both fit and well then advised them to return to the beach.

The lifeboat crew then returned to Charton bay to assist the stranded sailor who had some parts broken on his sailing dinghy. One of the volunteer crew swam ashore to assist the sailor and recover the boat, setting up a tow and towing the sailor and dinghy back to the safety of Lyme Regis harbour.

The lifeboat returned to Lyme Regis harbour about 4pm.

Lifeboat Helm Murray Saunders said: “Our volunteer lifeboat crew worked well today, and we were able to make sure everyone returned home safely. The beautiful weather is encouraging more people to the beach and sea, but it is important for people to be careful when entering the water, check your equipment, sea conditions and tide times.

If you see someone in trouble in or near the sea, call 999 and ask for the coastguard.”

27^th May 2020

Lyme Regis lifeboat help woman and dogs cut-off by the tide

Lyme Regis lifeboat launched yesterday afternoon (Tuesday 26^th May) at 12.50pm to a report of a woman in distress fearing being cut off by the tide near Pinhay bay, between Lyme Regis and Charton bay.

The lifeboat crew were quick to launch and were soon on scene with the boat to begin searching for the stranded woman and her two dogs.

The volunteer lifeboat crew spotted the woman ashore who was waving to attract their attention, they deployed a crew member to swim ashore and to reassure the casualty. One of the dogs was blind and struggling with the terrain. The crew member escorted the casualty and dogs to Charton bay, due to the flat calm conditions the lifeboat was able to get close enough for the casualty and dogs to jump aboard the lifeboat to return safely to Lyme Regis.

The local coastguard team greeted the lifeboat on return to Lyme Regis harbour and the woman and dogs were taken back to her car.

Lifeboat Helm Tom Crabbe said: “The weather and see conditions made for a quick and safe recovery. It is important for people to check tide times before heading out. If you see someone in trouble in or near the sea, call 999 and ask for the coastguard.”

20 May 2020  

RNLI and HM Coastguard launch beach safety campaign urging parents to protect their families and save lives at the coast this summer 

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Her Majesty’s (HM) Coastguard today  launch a new beach safety campaign, urging parents to protect their families by following key safety advice to save lives this summer.

Following the recent easing of nationwide lockdown restrictions in England and with children still off school, many more people are expected to visit the coast to exercise and take part in water-based activities.   Last weekend alone, Coastguard rescue teams were called out 194 times in the UK to incidents including; inflatables drifting offshore, crashed jet skis, people injured while out walking or cycling along the coast, paddleboarders, kayakers, windsurfers and kite surfers in difficulty and people cut off by the tide.

In 2019, RNLI lifeguards aided more than 29,000 people on UK beaches in more than 17,000 incidents, saving a total of 154 lives. They also helped to reunite nearly 1,800 lost children and teenagers with their families and aided 346 people in incidents involving inflatables.

Despite the ongoing challenges posed by coronavirus and social distancing the RNLI still hopes to provide a lifeguard service on around 30% of the beaches the charity usually covers in time for the traditional peak summer season. But at present, there are no RNLI lifeguards on UK beaches, and we cannot be everywhere this summer.

Whilst RNLI lifeboat crews and HM Coastguard are still on call ready to respond to emergencies, the message is clear; we need the public to be aware of dangers, take responsibility for themselves and their loved ones and remember that, in an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

Gareth Morrison, RNLI Head of Water Safety, said: ‘If the charity’s lifeguards were present on the beaches today, they would be preventing many incidents before they even occurred by directing people to safe swimming areas, highlighting dangers such as rip currents and advising people not to use inflatables. These preventive measures are not currently in place meaning people could find themselves in danger if they are not reading the signs and following the relevant safety advice.

He added: ‘Our lifeguards are trained to swim 200m within 3 1/2 minutes, and although our volunteer lifeboat crews are fully operational, should they be needed, they won’t be able to reach you in the same time.

‘It is important that anyone visiting the coast understands that the beach can be a dangerous environment and you must take more responsibility for you and your family this summer. No one ever goes to the coast to be rescued yet RNLI lifeguards rescue 1000’s each year.’

Following key safety advice will keep people safe and help to reduce the demands placed on RNLI lifeboat crews, HM Coastguard and other emergency services.

That is why parents are now being urged to take charge and be ‘beach smart’ if they visit the coast to ensure they and their families have the safest summer possible, whether lifeguards are patrolling their beach or not.

Claire Hughes, director of HM Coastguard said: ‘We know from sad experience that whether you’re local or nor, whatever your ability of experience in your chosen sport or leisure activity, the sea can still catch you out and be unmerciful when it does. Now, more than ever we need people to respect the sea and the coast.

‘If you get into trouble call 999 and ask for the Coastguard and we will come to your aid. But coronavirus hasn’t gone away, and we all need to follow the rules. Remember your choices might put people, including yourself and frontline responders, at risk. Take extra care in these extraordinary times.’

This summer with beach lifeguard patrols significantly reduced the RNLI and HM Coastguard are advising the public not to use inflatables at all and for everyone, especially parents, planning a visit to a beach or the coast to follow this safety advice:

·         Have a plan - check the weather forecast, tide times and read local hazard signage

·         Keep a close eye on your family – on the beach and in the water

·         Don’t allow your family to swim alone

·         Don’t use inflatables

·         If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE. Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and Float

·         In an emergency dial 999, and ask for the Coastguard

Background:

·     Roll-out of the normal seasonal lifeguard service was paused at the end of March due to the measures put in place by the UK Government to control the spread of Coronavirus. With changes to the lockdown restrictions allowing the public to visit beaches around the UK and Channel Islands, the RNLI has been looking at plans to resume a lifeguard service where possible. This needs to be consistent with government guidance, but the plan is for the service to build in time so that lifeguard patrols reach 70 beaches by peak season.  Beaches will be chosen based on risk and popularity. The RNLI will also look to achieve a geographical spread while making sure the service provided is flexible and sustainable enough to respond to what may be an ever-changing environment.

For further information on the campaign visit: rnli.org/beach2020

19 May 2020

Lifeboat Zoom meeting ends with a ‘shout’

A Zoom meeting of management  volunteers who run the RNLI lifeboat station in Lyme Regis came to an abrupt end  last night when their pagers sounded and the  crew launched to answer a ‘shout.’

Police asked for help in dealing with ‘a man behaving erratically’ on the beach at Burton Bradstock.

The lifeboat crew were stood down after police dealt with the incident.

The Zoom meeting of the lifeboat operations team was half way through its allotted 40 minutes, having started at 7pm, when the crew were called out.
 

Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week and Carnival cancelled

Two of the biggest and most eagerly anticipated summer events in Lyme Regis – Lifeboat Week and the Regatta and Carnival Week – have been cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Lifeboat Week has been held in the town since the early 1970s and has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for the RNLI charity. Last year alone the week raised a record £40,000.

Lifeboat Week and the Regatta and Carnival were due to be held at the end of July and early August.

Ken Lavery, chairman of the Lyme Regis Lifeboat Supporters, said: ”This decision was incredibly difficult to make. However, first and foremost we must put the safety and welfare of our visitors, members and volunteers above all else.

“We felt it was impossible to carry out our many and varied activities to the standard  that holidaymakers and members of the community know and love, with social distancing measures in place as they should be.

“Lifeboat Week in Lyme has always been not only great fun for all concerned, but has raised a significant sum to support our voluntary lifesaving efforts.

“Our crew remains ready to go to the aid of anyone in danger on the sea  with our colleagues in the coastguard service and this vital service will continue.

“However, as well as losing Lifeboat Week, a decision has been made to keep the lifeboat shop closed over the busy holiday period to ensure the safety of our volunteers many of whom are in the vulnerable groups.

“Therefore there will be a very significant loss of income this year. We would hope that as many  people as are able will support the RNLI through donations and  by using the online shop so that the loss can to some extent be mitigated.”

Alan Vian, Regatta and Carnival Secretary, said:”We are so disappointed as we always look forward to being with holidaymakers raising money for local good causes.

“This virus will have a negative effect on local traders during this summer and on the lack of donations that we usually make to local organisations.

“Preparations are already in place for Lifeboat Week 2021 from July 24 to 31 and Regatta and Carnival Week from August 7 to 14 and we look forward to welcoming everyone then. Together we will get through these difficult times, and the message is keep safe and take care.”

11 May 2020                                                              

RNLI statement following UK Prime Minister’s announcement on 10 May.

The RNLI is currently seeking further clarity following the update given by the UK Prime Minister last night, 10 May, and will be engaging with a number of watersport governing bodies and other stakeholders to help inform its response.

Many people will want to visit the coast and participate in water-based activities such as swimming, kayaking, surfing, boating and angling.

At present there are no RNLI lifeguards on beaches and although our volunteer lifeboat crews are fully operational, should they be needed, it is important that anyone visiting the coast understands the risk and takes the necessary steps to keep themselves safe.  This will also help to reduce the demands placed on our lifeboat crews and other emergency services including HM Coastguard. In this way we can all work together to succeed in ensuring the coast is a safe place to visit.

We would urge anyone planning a visit to the coast to follow RNLI safety advice:

•           Take care near cliffs - know your route and your limitations

•           Have a plan - check the weather forecast and tide times

•           If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE. Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and Float

·            If individuals are choosing to go sailing or yachting it is important to ensure that  

      equipment is properly checked and serviceable before going afloat.

•           In any coastal emergency dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

May 8, 2020

Lifeboat crew ‘log on’…. twice

The volunteer crew of the RNLI lifeboat in Lyme Regis answered two calls today following reports of a kayak in difficulty and an unspecified object in the water.

In both cases – near Charmouth and off Axmouth – the items turned out to be tree logs.

Both logs were retrieved by the lifeboat crew, one taken on board and the larger one towed back to Lyme Regis harbour.

The crew launched at 11am and returned to harbour at 12.30pm.

A lifeboat spokesman said:” In both cases it was better to be safe than sorry after the reports were received.”

April 25^th 2020

Lyme Regis lifeboat crew search for missing diver

Lyme Regis lifeboat launched yesterday afternoon (Saturday 25^th April) at 3.35pm to a report of a missing diver approximately 5 miles south of Lyme Regis.

The lifeboat crew were quick to launch and were soon on scene with the boat to begin searching for the diver.   

Two fishermen, one from Cornwall and the other from Edinburgh who were both staying in Bridport were diving for scallops when one of the divers became detached from his surface buoy/marker. The diver had been diving without a buddy.

The marker buoy was discovered by the other man aboard the boat with no diver attached, he then contacted the coastguard to inform them of his missing diver.

The coastguard alerted Lyme Regis lifeboat, Exmouth lifeboat and HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopter from St. Athan and Newquay to search for the diver. At least four other fishing vessels and the Royal Navy Offshore Patrol Vessel HMS Tyne joined in the search.

After some considerable searching, Sub Lieutenant Boyle from HMS Tyne spotted the diver and Exmouth Lifeboat were able to recover him from the water safe and well.

He was passed to Lyme Regis lifeboat where the crew brought him back to the safety of the harbour.

The diver who did not want to be named said “I came up to the surface with my bag of scallops and was shouting at the guy in the boat but the swell had picked up, the waves were bigger and he was up wind so couldn’t hear me. I saw the helicopter fly over and some of the other boats searching. I was very relieved when the lifeboat crew arrived and pulled me out of the water. Thank you to everyone involved”

The local coastguard team and police were present, and the two fishermen were issued with a fine as a breach of the covid-19 lockdown.

Lifeboat Operations Manager Nick Marks said: “We are glad that the diver is safe and well however the RNLI is recommending that you should not go in or near the water during this lockdown.

March 31^st 2020

Lifeboat crew remain on standby but Blessing of the Boats cancelled

Volunteers who operate the life-saving service for the RNLI in Lyme Regis, and elsewhere, continue to be on standby during the coronavirus outbreak.

The crew members have ‘key worker’ status and will remain ready to launch the lifeboat in an emergency.

Lyme Regis’ volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager Nick Marks  said:” Many people will have noticed that the lifeboat station doors are now closed during the day and that the station is not open to visitors.

“We have had to do this to comply with the government and RNLI guidance on social distancing and to keep our crew safe

“For the same reason it is necessary to cancel any events which encourage large numbers to come to the lifeboat station. “This means that the Blessing of the Boats service on May 17 will no longer take place.

“We are hoping that the situation improves over the summer such that we are able to stage our Lifeboat Week planned for the end of July. A decision on this will be made later.”

March 18^th 2020

Virus alert closes Lyme Regis Lifeboat Station and RNLI shop

The following statement is from Nick Marks, volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager for the RNLI in Lyme Regis.

“In order to protect our volunteers as much as possible  from coronavirus infection Lyme Regis Lifeboat Station has closed to visitors for the foreseeable future. The RNLI shop on the Cobb has also closed.

“Lifeboat training has been reduced to the bare minimum needed to sustain our ability to deliver a lifesaving service.

“The lifeboat crew will continue to respond to service calls as and when required.”

March 16th

Lifeboat supporters cancel AGM

The  following statement was issued today by the Charmouth and Lyme Regis Lifeboat Supporters:
The Lyme Regis and Charmouth Lifeboat Supporters annual general meeting due to take place on April 1^st has been cancelled in light of the current coronavirus emergency.
The management committee took this decision in light of the emerging  national advice on supporting measures to limit spread of the virus. We apologise for any inconvenience and will keep everyone up to date with our activities via our Facebook page.  The shop will also be closed until further notice

March 7. 2020

Landslips warning to walkers as mother and daughter rescued by Lyme Regis RNLI

A warning to coastal walkers about the dangers of being cut off by the tide because of landslips has been issued by the RNLI in Lyme Regis.

The town’s lifeboat crew were called out twice today (Sat) following reports of four people in trouble.

In the first case, just after 3pm, two people managed to walk to safety from Seven Rock Point west of Lyme Regis harbour.

But only minutes later a mother and her ten year old daughter were cut off because of a landslip east of the town as they tried to walk from Lyme Regis to Charmouth looking for fossils.

Volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager Nick Marks himself raised the alarm after spotting Hester Brough and her daughter Iona in difficulties east of the new sea wall.

Mr Marks said:”The couple had started their walk two hours before high tide but landslips following heavy rain are reducing safe areas ashore and increasing the risk of being cut off earlier.”

One lifeboat crew member, Rich Tilley swam ashore to assist the pair. Then the crew’s X-boat – a ten foot inflatable – was  rowed ashore to pick them up and transfer them to the lifeboat.

Hester Brough, on holiday from Bathampton, Somerset,  said “I am a little embarrassed but we were so relieved to see the lifeboat crew. We won’t be walking in that direction again now that we know about the landslips.

2^nd March 2020                                                                      

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat false alarm

Lyme Regis lifeboat launched this afternoon to a report of a person in the water drifting south of Charmouth.

Lyme Regis lifeboat volunteer crew responded to a call from the Coastguard to a report of a person in the water near Charmouth.

The volunteer crew were contacted by the Coastguard at 1.30pm to assist, 10 minutes later the crew had arrived on scene to find that the reported person was some floating marker buoys!

The call came from a member of the public who spotted the item. This was the fourth call out for Lyme Regis lifeboat this year.

If you see someone in trouble at the coast, call 999 and ask for the coastguard

Boys rowed to safety by RNLI crew member after inflatable deflates

Three boys – two aged 13 and one 14 – were helped to safety today by a Lyme Regis RNLI crew member after their inflatable boat deflated in the town’s harbour.

The lifeboat crew were alerted at 4.55pm. Crew member Rich Tilley rowed the lifeboat station’s X-boat – a ten foot inflatable -to pontoons in the harbour to collect two of the boys. The third boy was already ashore.

The boys were said to be ‘rather wet and apologetic but otherwise unhurt.’

RNLI mascot Stormy Stan to run the London marathon for the life-saving charity

Stormy Stan, the RNLI’s mascot, whose ‘home’ is a cupboard in Lyme Regis lifeboat station, is running in this year’s London marathon...with a little help from a 41 year old lorry driver.

Simon Marchant, a former RNLI crew member in Penarth, used social media to trace the Stormy Stan outfit in Lyme Regis.

Nick Marks, volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager, said: ‘Simon has raised  many donations for our life-saving charity and we are delighted to let him borrow Stormy Stan for the marathon and, of course, we wish them both every success.’

Simon, from Willand, Cullumpton, will be taking time off from driving his HGV to take part in the marathon on April 25. But before that he will be warming up by running in a half marathon in Tavistock, and the 108 miles from the RNLI’s Poole headquarters to the Tower lifeboat station on the Thames.

Eighteen months ago Simon ran 42 marathons in 42 days around the coast of Wales and has also cycled from Land’s End to John O’Groats.

He tried on the mascot outfit for size one night  and ran around Holmbush car park in Lyme Regis at 2am. “I have got permission to make a minor adjustment to Stormy’s head so that I have better vision,” said Simon, “but fingers crossed, and with a few stops here and there, I hope to complete the marathon within 8 hours. Stormy has a big head so I think other runners will give him a wide berth.”

Simon has a fund-raising site for Stormy Stan at JustGiving.com

The episode of Saving Lives at Sea featuring our rescue of the two boys will now be screened on Wednesday Feb 26 at 8pm on BBC 2.

Saturday 18^th January

Lyme Regis RNLI Lifeboat launched to man in fall from Cobb wall

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat crew were tasked  by HM Coastguard following reports that a man had fallen off the high wall of the Cobb.

The lifeboat was about to launch at 3.20pm when crew were advised by a member of the public that the man who had fallen from had been picked up by two people who were paddle boarding.  The lifeboat left the boathouse on to the slipway but it was then decided it was not necessary to launch.

Lifeboat crew and the local coastguard team met the casualty, David Crabtree, 65, from Sidmouth when the paddleboarders bought him ashore on Monmouth beach.

David and Debbie Crabtree were walking their dachshund dog ‘Prim’ along the high wall when David suddenly slipped, lost his balance and fell into the shallow waters below. Another couple who saw this happen called 999 and asked for the coastguard and an ambulance.

Mr Crabtree was attended to by lifeboat volunteers, coastguard and ambulance crew. He then joined the crew in the lifeboat station to warm up before heading back to Sidmouth.

Debbie Crabtree said: “It all happened so quickly and luckily there was another couple there who contacted the coastguard and were able to get the attention of the paddleboarders to rescue David. The lifeboat crew have been fantastic and so helpful with looking after David.”

As this incident was occurring, another man had fallen from the wall the other side and was attended to by the coastguard and ambulance crew.

Nick Marks, Lifeboat Operations Manager said: “The high wall of the Cobb is particularly slippery, the harbour master has temporarily advised members of the public not to access the top of the wall due to large amounts of algae making hazardous walking conditions.”

6 January 2020

Lifeboat rescues and fund-raising success for Lyme Regis RNLI in 2019

Three rescues due to be screened by the BBC, plus a video Christmas special featuring the crew and their families and an all-time record £40,000 raised during Lifeboat Week...these were the highlights of 2019 for the volunteers of the RNLI in Lyme Regis.

The man at the helm of the lifeboat station, Operations Manager Nick Marks, said: “Once again teamwork and training by the crew and tremendous fund-raising efforts by the Lifeboat Supporters group have contributed to a very successful year  for our volunteers.”

The rescue of two 14 year old boys being swept out to sea from the River Axe in June is due to be seen in the BBC’s Saving Lives at Sea series early in the New Year.

Video using a  helmet camera worn by a crew member shows the boys’ dramatic rescue as they cling to each other at sea.

Footage shot during two other ‘shouts’ is also expected to be featured in the series later this year. They are the rescue of two ex-professional sailors whose dinghy capsized  and the successful search for a woman trapped on cliffs with her two dogs.

The Lyme Regis lifeboat crew answered 33 emergency calls during 2019, a third of them to people cut off by the tide.

The first two ‘shouts’ of the year were to such incidents in the Charmouth area.

Mr Marks said:” We always urge people to check tide times and general conditions when out walking.

“Although the year was largely successful there was also sadness when an extensive search by our crew, Exmouth lifeboat and the coastguard  helicopter failed to find a man who, it later transpired, had died in the Freshwater Bay area.”

Senior helm Tim Edwards, who was aboard the lifeboat when the two schoolboys were rescued and who features in the BBC film of the incident, said “It was a generally  safe and successful 2019 and the rescue of those boys will remain with me for many a year.

“It was a wonderful end to an incident that could have been so different. It’s what makes all our volunteer work and training so worthwhile.”

Some 2019 'Shouts'

28. December 2019

Hundreds boost RNLI funds by £2k at Christmas Day swim

Hundreds of spectators and dozens of fancy dress swimmers enjoyed the Christmas Day sunshine at Charmouth and donated £1,826 to the RNLI .

The event was reckoned to be one of the most successful for several years, and chairman of the Lyme Regis Lifeboat Supporters Ken Lavery said: “It was a great event with perfect sunshine, blue skies and the tide was right so we could use the sandy beach.

“It was just a perfect way to start Christmas Day and, once again, we are so grateful to everyone who donated to our life-saving charity.”

18 December 2019

Lifeboat charity donates hamper gift to food bank
 

An anonymous gift of a hamper to the RNLI in Lyme Regis has been donated by the lifeboat crew to the town’s food bank.

The hamper was presented today to  the food bank’s manager, Chris Tipping, of Lyme Forward.

Lifeboat Operations Manager Nick Marks said: “Lyme Regis lifeboat is very fortunate to have generous supporters to whom we are always grateful

“Recently, a couple, who did not want to be named, handed in a hamper of festive food at the lifeboat shop.

“Wile our crew appreciate this gesture we recognise there are people in the town who would benefit from these items  and who do not enjoy the level of support that we do. We therefore decided to donate the hamper to the food bank, and we thought it appropriate that one deserving charity such as ours

 should support another very worthwhile enterprise, particularly at Christmas.”

17 December 2019    

Lyme Regis volunteers feature in the RNLI’s heart-warming Christmas film

RNLI volunteers from Lyme Regis lifeboat station are the stars of the very first Christmas film produced by the lifesaving charity.

Filmed on location at the station in Lyme Regis the heart-warming film aims to celebrate the dedication and commitment of all its volunteer lifeboat crews who will be on call during the Christmas period.

The RNLI’s festive film follows 25-year-old full-time TV Production Coordinator and crew member, Georgia Robson. Whilst preparing Christmas dinner, she is called away by the sound of her pager. She races to the lifeboat station to join the rest of the crew who are preparing for rescue.

The crew launch the lifeboat to search for a casualty who they thankfully find and bring back to safety. As they prepare the lifeboat for service again, they discover a festive surprise in the station boathouse.

Over recent years, it has become a festive tradition for charities and businesses to release promotional Christmas films and adverts. But instead of actors and big budgets, the RNLI have produced the film in-house, featuring the very people who will be in action over Christmas.

Star of the film Georgia, a volunteer crew member, said: ‘I loved being involved in this film. Christmas is a time where families come together, but RNLI volunteers can be called away from their families and homes at any moment. I think this film beautifully highlights the 'togetherness' found within crews all around our coast.'

Sharing her thoughts on the festive film, Director of Fundraising, Media and Marketing, Jayne George, said, ‘Our RNLI festive film shows the magic of families coming together at Christmas.

‘But it also shows the reality of Christmas for some of our volunteers who will still be on call during their festive celebrations. We want to take this opportunity to thank our volunteers and supporters, we couldn’t do it without them.’

RNLI lifeboat crews in the south west are busier than ever, with a 500% increase in call outs over the festive period* in 2018 compared with the same period 40 years ago. Facing a ‘Perfect Storm’, the lifesaving charity experienced a shortfall in funds last year, but more people than ever still need its help.

To help the RNLI volunteers continue to save lives at sea, please visit RNLI.org/ThePerfectStorm.  The film can be downloaded as a file from the News Centre

15 December 2019

Lifeboat crew praised for ‘safe and sound’ year

A safe, sound and efficient year was how the man at the helm of  the RNLI  in Lyme Regis described 2019 at the crew members’ Christmas dinner last night (Sat).

Lifeboat Operations Manager Nick Marks said that so far this year the volunteer crew had answered 32 calls for help and held 40 training sessions ‘no mean achievement.’

Some 60 crew members, their family and friends, attended the dinner at the Harbour Inn.

Special awards were made to helm Mark Colley, who has completed 20 years voluntary service with the RNLI, and former crew member Mark Gage for 15 years service.

The much-coveted award for the person voted the crews’ crew member of the year went to helm Tom Crabbe.

Tongue-in-cheek awards went to Tom Wallis  who ‘won’ the Bent Propeller Trophy, and two crew members were voted Tractor Drivers of the Year...John Cable and Garry Gibbs.

Get ready for a fancy dress dip on Christmas Day

Charmouth’s famous Christmas Day swim is being held again this year, weather permitting.

The event began many years ago and was organised by villagers.

Year after year dozens of hardy souls – dressed as vicars, dinasaurs and crusaders to name but a few – plunge into icy water just for fun and to support fundraising for the RNLI.

Again this year volunteers from the Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat crew will also be in the water keeping a watchful eye on proceedings.

And also again this year the licensees of the Royal Oak, Charmouth, Sue and Matthew Bracey, will be providing a welcome glass of mulled wine.

Sue said: “The free wine goes down very well with the swimmers, but this year we will have more bottles so that can serve spectators as well for a donation to the RNLI.”

Swimmers are asked to arrive at 10.30 ready for an 11am start.

10^th December 2019

Homebredy House residents produce calendar to raise donations for RNLI charity

On Thursday 5^th December, a presentation of £106.00 from donations and sales of calendars was made by resident Bill Hancox to Krys Lavery (RNLI Shop Manager, Lyme Regis)

Homebredy House provides retirement housing in East Street, Bridport. Manager Jacqui Street explained that Bill had put together the calendar with contributions in rhyme and paintings from members of the Homebredy House, Art and Poetry Clubs.

The front page is devoted to Lifeboats and Crews with a collection of humorous rhymes and pictures to enjoy throughout the year.

The cheque was handed over by Bill to Krys and a further £104.50 was raised by sales from a pop-up shop of RNLI goodies set out at the afternoon tea party.

In all a total of £213.00 was raised to help the RNLI save lives at sea.

Nick Marks, Lifeboat Operations Manager for Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat station said “We are very grateful for the residents of Homebredy House for this donation, the RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service.”

26th November

Lyme Regis RNLI Lifeboat launched to woman and 2 dogs stuck on cliffs

Lyme Regis lifeboat was launched yesterday afternoon to a report of a woman with her two dogs stuck on the cliffs.

Lyme Regis lifeboat worked together with HM Coastguard teams to rescue a woman, 33 from Cardiff with her 2 dogs who was stuck at the base of the cliffs at Black Venn, between Lyme Regis and Charmouth.

Volunteer lifeboat crew launched the lifeboat at 4.35pm and after performing a shoreline search, they were able to locate the casualty because she was using the torch function on her mobile phone.

Two of the lifeboat crew swam ashore to assess the situation and casualty.

It was a very high tide so the woman had decided to move to higher ground, this made it very difficult for the Coastguard teams to access the location.

The lifeboat returned to the station to transport members of the Lyme Regis Coastguard Response Team and another lifeboat crew to assist with the recovery.

The Coastguard Rescue helicopter was requested to help and arrived to winch the casualty back to Charmouth for further assessment. The volunteer lifeboat crew utilised their small X boat for transporting the 2 dogs and crew ashore back to the main inshore lifeboat.

The woman and both dogs were safely recovered and all in good health.  

The lifeboat returned to Lyme Regis harbour with the Coastguard team and 2 dogs by 8pm .

Supper success

Donations to the RNLI at a fish supper at Lyme Regis lifeboat station on Saturday totalled £519. 25p.

The supper was hosted by former chef Petrina Muscroft, and 23 diners tucked into a large soup pot of chilli con carne, two slow cookers of fish curry, three large salmon and one gammon. A quiz and a raffle helped to boost donations.

17 November 2019

Teens learn the ropes at lifeboat station

Five teens, who spent six months learning the ropes with volunteers of the RNLI in Lyme Regis, got their reward  today … a half hour trip in the town’s lifeboat.

The youngsters, all students at Woodroffe School, are working towards their Duke of Edinburgh awards and have spent the past six months attending training sessions  at the lifeboat station to complete  the volunteer section of the  scheme.

The lifeboat trip marked the end of their sessions with the lifeboat team.

Helm Brian Street took each  of the youngsters to sea, one at a time, with other crew members. Two of the students are Brian’s sons, Logan,15 and Tyler, 17, who is hoping to join the crew soon.

Another of the youngsters, Rafferty Porter,15, is the son of Steve Porter who is a DLA - Deputy Launching Authority- at the lifeboat station. As he came ashore Rafferty said: ‘That trip in the lifeboat was so cool; so much fun, and who knows I might join the crew one day.’

The other two students were Jack Evans ,15, and Merlin Thompson, 14.

Brian Street, a helm with the lifeboat for 15 years, said : ‘ For the past six months these young men have been shown rope work, navigation methods, chart work and all about the workings of the lifeboat and the station as a whole.’

Former DLA Ian Marshall and DLA Steve Porter also worked with the youngsters.

16 November 2019

Caravan park donations boost RNLI charity

Donations by visitors to a Charmouth caravan park resulted in a cheque for £3,130 presented today to the crew of Lyme Regis  RNLI lifeboat.

The owner of Wood Farm Caravan Park, Jane Bremner , made the RNLI  her charity for the year, and the 4,500 bookings  for the park  resulted in the bumper donations.

The caravan park has been in Jane’s family for 47 years and has 300 pitches.

Nick Marks, volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager in Lyme Regis, said: ‘The generosity of Jane and her visitors is much appreciated by all members of our crew.’

Next year’s charity at Wood Farm will be Dorset Mind.

15 November 2019

Diver rescued by lifeboat joins Lyme Regis RNLI

A former diving instructor who was once rescued by a lifeboat crew has joined  the volunteer RNLI team in Lyme Regis.

Paul Carey,61, who moved to Lyme Regis from Sussex this year, has joined the management team at the town’s lifeboat station as a DLA – Deputy Launching Authority.

Paul, who started diving at 14, soon after he learned to swim, was rescued with his dive ‘buddy’ after they surfaced only to find their dive boat had disappeared.

“We were in the water for 45 minutes with waves of three feet. The dive boat reported us missing and we were very relieved when the RNLI arrived,” said Paul.

As a qualified lifesaving examiner, boat handler and VHF radio tutor, Paul also taught diving at Poole Dive Centre.

Paul, who worked with adults with learning difficulties in Sussex  for 20 years, said:”I will never forget my gratitude at being rescued by the RNLI, and when we moved to Lyme Regis I thought here was the ideal opportunity to give something back by volunteering.”

Paul and his wife Karen have three grown up children, twins Lucy and Anna,24, and Timothy, 26.

Tuck into an RNLI Fish Supper and help us save lives at sea!

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is asking the people of Lyme Regis to take part in the charity’s annual foodie fundraiser, Fish Supper, to help save lives at sea.

A former chef will be serving a special menu on Saturday 16^th November to raise funds for the RNLI in Lyme Regis. 

Petrina Muscroft will be hosting a fish supper at the towns lifeboat station with two sittings at 6.30pm and 8.30pm. 

On the menu, salmon with new potatoes, a fish curry and a vegetarian chilli con carne.

There will also be a mini quiz and raffle  

Petrina said “I will be donating all the food I am suggesting a £10 donation for diners. I am asking people to bring their own drinks.”

The first sitting is sold out but to book for 8.30pm sitting, please call Petrina on 07967145035 or email noake@talk21.com

27 October 2019

Lifeboat launched to children aboard ‘sinking gig’

Lyme Regis lifeboat was launched today (Sunday) after a gig with children aboard was overwhelmed by waves and filled with water.

It happened 200metres off West Beach, West Bay.

Everyone involved, including about six youngsters and three adults, reached shore safely.

Volunteer lifeboat crew, paramedics and coastguards ashore treated some of the gig occupants.

The lifeboat crew launched at 9.48, initially to a report of ‘an overturned gig with people in the water.’ When they arrived on scene adults and childen were ashore, some inside the harbourmaster’s office. The gig was on the beach.

Two lifeboat crew members, Georgia Robson and Andy Butterfield, went ashore to assist with ‘casualty care.’

The lifeboat then returned to Lyme Regis to pick up crew member Mark Ellis, who is also a full time paramedic, and helm Murray Saunders to assist, along with another paramedic, in treating children and adults.

Mark Ellis said:” I was able to treat two women and a young girl who were in some distress.”

Canoe club in rescue exercise with RNLI crew

A major exercise involving the RNLI lifeboat crew based in Lyme Regis and members of the Axe Vale Canoe Club has been hailed a success and a valuable contribution to improved safety at sea.

The exercise involved ten experienced kayakers and canoeists, and the scenario simulated a club member becoming ill. The lifeboat crew located the ‘casualty’ using VHF transmission from kayakers and then assisted canoe club members and their kayaks from the scene of the incident to the Axe marina.

Mike McAlpine, RNLI volunteer Community Safety Officer, said: ”The key message was being able to call for help can save lives. On a small craft like a kayak carrying a PLB – Personal Locator Beacon – is always a good idea.

“A hand held VHF radio is worth considering, as well as a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch which works well on many parts of the near shore.

“The exercise was a success for both the lifeboat crew and the kayakers with important lessons being learned.”

 
Lifeboat crew’s dramatic rescue of two boys to feature in BBC TV’s Saving Lives at Sea

Four members of the volunteer crew of the RNLI’s Lyme Regis lifeboat will feature in the BBC 2 series Saving Lives At Sea after their dramatic rescue of two boys being swept out to sea.

The rescue, at the end of June, was filmed by a lifeboat crew member using a helmet camera and shows how two 14 year old boys were found clinging to each other after being swept out to sea some 200 metres from the River Axe.

The boys, Archie Woollacott and Bozhidra Bobev – known as Bo – are both students at Axe Valley Academy, Axminster.  Archie later helped to raise £700 which the school presented to the RNLI after he had his hair shaved off by a fellow student.

Archie, his mum Emily, and Bo feature in the film along with  lifeboat crew members Tim Edwards, Murray Saunders, Andy Butterfield and Nikky Williams.

Saving Lives At Sea, featuring the Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat crew, is scheduled for transmission sometime  on BBC 2 We'll let you know

18^th October 2019

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat crew rescue man in the water being swept out to sea

Lyme Regis lifeboat launched this afternoon (Friday) to a report of a man in the water in difficulty at Seaton, Devon. The volunteer crew were  quick to launch, only 8 minutes after being requested by HM Coastguard at 1pm.

The lifeboat arrived in Seaton less than 15 minutes later and were able to locate and rescue the man who was wearing a drysuit and lifejacket with bright colours. The volunteer crew returned with the man to Lyme Regis lifeboat station.

Lifeboat helm Murray Saunders said: “We were able to get to Seaton quickly considering the rough seas, it was a good job the man was wearing appropriate protective clothing and a lifejacket. This helped when we  began searching and were able to rescue him rapidly.”

The lifeboat crew returned to Lyme Regis harbour with the casualty aboard safe and well at 2.00p.m.

13th October

Lifeboat launched to ‘man on cliffs’

Lyme Regis lifeboat was launched last night (Sat) after reports of a man scrambling up cliffs apparently to avoid a high tide.

Coastguards ashore and the volunteer lifeboat crew searched an area east of Lyme Regis but found no trace of the man.

The lifeboat launched at 7.19pm and returned to Lyme Regis harbour at 8.30pm .

The incident was recorded as a false alarm with good intent.

Sailing Club fish supper catches £660 for RNLI

A fish supper hosted by Lyme Regis Sailing Club served up a £660 donation for the volunteers of the town’s RNLI charity.

The supper was held last Friday (Oct 11^th)  and sixty meals were served at the club’s headquarters thanks to the help of Vic Pelaou from Lyme’s Fish Bar.

The event was organised by the sailing club’s Trish Williams along with Di Mattock. The duo and Vic are pictured with the giant cheque which they presented to  lifeboat crew members at their training session today.

Another fish supper in Lyme Regis is planned for November 16^th when former chef Petrina Muscroft hosts a feast at the town’s lifeboat station.

It’s the third year running that Petrina has held a fish supper as part of the RNLI’s fund-raising activities.

Once again this year the RNLI is encouraging people to come together with friends, family or their local community to have fun and enjoy a fish-themed dish to help save lives at sea.
She will do two sittings, 6-8pm and 8.30--10.30. There will be a choice of fish dishes and vegetarian, minimum donation £7 and bring your own drink.
 

Every penny raised during the RNLI Fish Suppers around the UK and Ireland will help prevent drowning and will go towards vital lifeboat crew kit, fuel for lifeboats, and essential training, including the charity’s many drowning prevention programmes such as Swim Safe sessions for children.

October 5 2019

Lifeboat Week breaks all records

The final total for Lifeboat Week and associated summer  fund-raising events in Lyme Regis this year is £40,315.  Treasurer for the Lyme Regis and Charmouth Lifeboat Supporters, Brian Cursley, announced the result and said: “There is little doubt that this is the best result ever after all expenses.”

Supporters chairman, Ken Lavery said: “This is just an  amazing  total and a tribute to all the RNLI volunteers involved in planning and running the events and, of course, we send our thanks to the many hundreds of generous people who gave donations during the week.”

27 September 2019

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat launched to two people & a dog cut off by tide

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat was launched yesterday afternoon (Thursday) when coastguards reported two people and a dog cut off by the tide at Black Venn, between Charmouth & Lyme Regis.

Sea conditions and visibility were good, the lifeboat crew were in communication with Lyme Regis coastguard rescue team and conducted searches along the beach but were later stood down by the coastguard.

Nick Marks, Volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager in Lyme Regis, said: ‘Conditions around the coastline this weekend are challenging with high tidal surges, large surf, and potential cliff falls. Anyone out walking should check the tide times prior to setting off.

As always, if you see someone in difficulty please call 999 and ask for the coastguard.’

The lifeboat was launched at 4.20pm and returned to Lyme Regis harbour an hour later.

This was the 23^rd emergency call answered by the RNLI volunteer crew at Lyme Regis so far this year

22^nd September 2019

Lifeboat launched to ‘swimmer reported to be in trouble’
 

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat launched yesterday  following a report of a person in the water requiring assistance off Beer beach.

The volunteer crew were tasked by the coastguard at 3.20pm to launch the lifeboat and arrived only 15 minutes later at Beer. The crew worked together with the Beer coastguard team and discovered the swimmer has made it safely to shore and was safe and well.

This was the 22^nd time the volunteer crew of Lyme Regis have launched.

The lifeboat returned to Lyme Regis harbour an hour later.

15 September 2019

Lifeboat launched to ‘paddleboarders in trouble’

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat was launched last night following a report of two paddleboarders in difficulty six miles south of West Bay harbour.

The volunteer crew  carried out a search but nothing was found and the ‘shout’ – the 21^st so far this year - was recorded as a false alarm with good intent.

The lifeboat was launched at 6.40 pm and returned to Lyme Regis harbour an hour later.

5 September, 2019

Lifeboat Week hits a £36,000 jackpot for life-saving charity

Lifeboat Week in Lyme Regis this year raised some £36,500 for the RNLI charity, the organisers heard last night.

Treasurer Brian Cursley announced the week’s financial results at the first meeting since the event of the Lyme Regis and Charmouth Lifeboat Supporters.

In his detailed report, Mr Cursley revealed that out of around 72 events the top earners were the water or wine lucky dip (£6,002), the glossy programme of the week’s events (£3,760) and the book stall (£2,556).

Since the early 1970s Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week has boosted the life-saving charity’s funds by hundreds of thousands of pounds.

In the last seven years alone volunteers have raised £250,000, thanks to the generous donations of visitors, residents and traders in the town and surrounding areas.

Chairman of the Lifeboat Supporters Ken Lavery said: ‘This year’s week was just brilliant and a huge tribute to everyone involved. All the new events did well as did the old favourites.  We are now planning an even more ambitious week for 2020.’

Next year’s Lifeboat Week is July 25^th – 31^st.

4^th September 2019

Artist Jess  donates to RNLI after national sailing championships

Jess Douglas, local artist/illustrator and Lyme Regis Sailing Club member, has presented a cheque for £130 to the volunteers of the town’s RNLI.

The donation to the lifeboat charity was raised during the Firefly National Championships  hosted in Lyme Regis in August. Jess sold copies of her promotional Firefly poster.  

Copies of the poster  are still available.  Contact Jess on her website: https://www.jessdouglas.com/

30 August 2019

Lifeboat joins big search after ‘flare’ report

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat joined a search last night (Thursday) after a fishing boat crew reported seeing two red flares a few minutes apart at sea.

The volunteer lifeboat crew launched at 10pm and were at sea until half past midnight, searching from Charmouth in the east to Seaton and Sidmouth to the west of Lyme Regis.

The lifeboat crew joined a search with a coastguard helicopter, Exmouth’s RNLI lifeboat and coastguards ashore from West Bay and Beer.

Nothing was found and the lifeboat crew were stood down by Solent coastguards just after midnight.

25 August 2019

Sea anglers net £3,000 for lifeboat volunteers

Members of Seaton’s Sea Angling Club yesterday (Sat) presented a cheque for £3,000 to the volunteers of the RNLI in Lyme Regis.

The donation to the lifeboat charity  was raised during a number of fund-raising events including the annual barbecue. The total included a large sum raised in  memory of Chris Cox, whose son Nathan is a member of the club.

23 August 2019

Lifeboat launched to ‘dinghy on rocks’

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat was launched yesterday (Thurs) after reports that a small dinghy had struck rocks and a man was in the water.

The incident happened at Broad Ledge, three quarters of a mile east of the town’s harbour.

The sailor was safe and well and was helped ashore by a lifeguard.  His dinghy was sailed back to Lyme Regis harbour by a member of the lifeboat crew.

Now lifeboat crew get a floating X-Factor !

www.lymeregislifeboatweek.co.uk

1^st August 2019

'Buskers’ 25 years at Lifeboat Week

Two musicians marked 25 years ‘busking’ at Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week.

Friends Holly Chapman. 70, and 92 year old Ivor Hyde have been playing together for 35 years, mainly at barn dances. But they have also appeared at Lifeboat Week every year, Holly, from Axminster, with her violin and Ivor, from near Chard, with his accordion.

Together they have raised hundreds of pounds for the RNLI. “It’s just a great pleasure to play in the open air, and the public are very generous,” said Holly.

August 1^st, 2019

Hazel,86, knits a pattern for charity work

If anyone summed up the spirit of charity work during Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week it was Hazel Swindells, 86, from the West Midlands.

Hazel is grandmother to Claire Perkins, the young woman who drowned in 2011 when her electric wheelchair fell into the town’s harbour.

Hazel,  her daughter Paula and Paula’s husband, Mark, travel from the West Midlands every year to help RNLI volunteers running the week which often raises £35,000 for the life-savung charity.

During the week Hazel sold programmes at the lifeboat station and at the same time knitted fingerless gloves which she sold for the RNLI. One visitor bought a pair for £14.

Hazel said: “I knit all day and every day and the gloves have been very popular.”

Hazel knits all year round, anything from the gloves to jumpers and cardigans, and always for charity including the one that supports people with the illness her grand-daughter suffered from.

27 July 2019

First day crowds enjoy sunshine at Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week

Huge crowds packed Lyme Regis today in the sunshine for the first day of this year’s Lifeboat Week.

A major attraction was the appearance of actor John Challis – Boycie in Only Fools and Horses – to officially open the week and then to deal with long queues to sign his autobiography.

Another major event was the welcome display by the Lyme Regis inshore lifeboat, Spirit of Loch Fyne, the all weather lifeboat from Exmouth and the coastguard helicopter from St Athan, South Wales.

Belly dancing from the Easter Promise group, an art exhibition and a display by members of the Weymouth and Portland Model Boat Club also attracted admiring audiences.

27 July, 2019

Three thrown overboard as dinghy is swamped by waves

Three young men, thrown overboard from their dinghy, have been praised by the RNLI for their text book response to the drama.

The men’s dinghy was swamped by waves at St. Gabriel’s Steps near Golden Cap last night (Friday).

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat was launched at 6.40pm. after coastguards reported the dinghy capsize and three people in the water.

Members of the volunteer lifeboat crew who responded to their pager alert included seven who had just started  to take part in a charity cricket match at Uplyme on the eve of lifeboat week.

The three men, all wearing lifejackets, managed to swim safely ashore. One member of the lifeboat crew also swam ashore to assist coastguards who escorted the three to Charmouth.

Ken Lavery, Deputy Launching Authority at the lifeboat station, said: ”The young men responded to their dilemma in an exemplary manner. All wore lifejackets, they kept each other in sight as they swam ashore, one had a kill cord attached to his ankle so their outboard engine stopped, and they even removed the petrol tank to avoid pollution. It was text book stuff.”

Owner of the 3.8m inflatable James Chambers, 23, from Leatherhead, Surrey was visiting Dorset with his fiancé Georgie, also 23, for their engagement party. The other two aboard the dinghy were James’ brother  Harry, 19, and friend James Goodall, 23, also from Surrey.

James Chambers said: ”We were hit by a big wave at the back of the dinghy and we were all tipped out. We were about 100metres from the beach. We swam ashore and we were all fine.”

24^th July 2019

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat launched after report of people in the water and a broken down fishing boat

Lyme Regis Lifeboat launched today (Wednesday) at 12.45pm today to a report of a 3 people in the water and a broken down fishing vessel near West Bexington.
Volunteer lifeboat crew were quick to launch after being notified by the coastguard. On arriving on scene, the crew discovered the casualties had made it ashore and managed to bring their 15ft fishing boat ashore.
The trio from Berkshire were on their fishing boat when it suffered engine failure, they managed to get the boat ashore and wait for assistance.
Two of the lifeboat crew swam ashore to liaise with the West Bay coastguard rescue team to ensure the casualties were safe and well. The crew set up a tow and towed the boat and people back to West Bay. The lifeboat returned to Lyme Regis by 2.30pm

20 July 2019

School’s £700 donation to RNLI life-savers

Pupils at Axe Valley Academy in Axminster have donated more than £700 to the RNLI in Lyme Regis following the rescue of two of their school colleagues last month.

One of the 14 year olds, Archie Woollacott, handed a donation of £731 to volunteer helm Murray Saunders at the school’s last assembly before the summer break yesterday (Fri).

The money was raised by Archie who had his head shaved for sponsorship and by hundreds of students who donated on a non-uniform day.

Archie, from Fishpond, Dorset, and his friend, known as Bo, were rescued by the Lyme Regis lifeboat crew after being swept out to sea from the mouth of the River Axe on June 28.

Youngsters at the  packed school assembly were  given some sea safety advice by Murray Saunders on the eve of their six week summer holiday. He warned against so-called tomb-stoning and urged the students to remember the RNLI’s message to:’ Respect the Water.’

30th June
One of the boys our crew rescued, (see below) Archie Woollacott, surprised us by presenting the crew with a lemon drizzle cake he had baked this morning. Archie attends cookery classes at school and said: "I just wanted to meet the crew who saved me and to say thank you properly." It now appears that he and his friend, Bo, were in the water for about an hour. Photo shows Archie (right) in the bows of the lifeboat with the cake and  helm Murray Saunders and other members of the crew foreground.

Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week 2019 aims to be bigger and better than ever

Plans are being finalised for Lifeboat Week, one of the biggest summer attractions in Lyme Regis and a huge fund raiser for the RNLI, the charity that saves lives at sea.
This year’s event gets under way on July 27^th , and the official opening will be performed by actor John Challis who played Boycie in the BBC TV hit series Only Fools and Horses.

This year it’s hoped to provide a detailed programme on line and it  will also be available at outlets around the town and, of course, the lifeboat shop on The Cobb.  

Fanny and Gay’s book is published by Deepest Books, price £20. More information at www.deepestbooks.co.uk or phone 0196332525.

Blessing of the boats remembers tragedy and rescues
An estimated two hundred people attended today’s Blessing of the Boats open air service at the RNLI’s lifeboat station in Lyme Regis. The poignant service was conducted by the Rev. Rosemary Bragg, interregnum team vicar, and the Rev Eric Holdstock from Lyme Regis Baptist Church.  The lesson was read by the recently elected Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Brian Larcombe.
Four wreaths were taken out to sea by members of the volunteer lifeboat crew, marking remembrance of those who have died but also celebrating ‘relief and gratitude’ for lifeboat crews, coastguards and helicopter crews all of whom have saved many lives.
Music for the service was provided by Lyme Regis Town Band.

Lifeboat launched to upturned Kayak
Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat was launched last night (Sat) following reports of an upturned kayak off West Bexington.  The volunteer crew launched at 7.27pm, but shortly afterwards coastguards ashore reported they had contacted the kayak’s owner, safe and well on the beach. The kayak was recovered later.
 

 Million-pound training fund helps Lyme Regis RNLI crew learn vital skills

Two  volunteer crew members at Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat station have had a vital part of their crew training funded by Lloyd’s Register Foundation.
 

The Blessing of the Boats  inter- denominational service at the lifeboat station will be conducted by local clergy and will be accompanied by the Lyme Regis Town Band.   

Deepest Dorset covers wide-ranging subjects including landscape, and literature, food, farming and fossils, architecture, the arts  and the oil industry and is published by Deepest Books, price £20. For more information visit www.deepestbooks.co.uk or phone 01963 32525.

Coastguards and the RNLI in Lyme Regis have issued a stark warning to people risking their lives as they ignore the dangers of the beautiful Jurassic Coast.

The latest warnings follow two incidents in which seven people were cut off by the tide, and photographs emerged of a couple and four children climbing in the mud on a cliff at Charmouth.

Volunteer Lyme Regis RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager Nick Marks said: “This latest evidence of people climbing the cliff with children is a serious concern, as is those who become cut off by the tide.

“ I fear serious injury, or even loss of life, is a real possibility when people do not take seriously the dangers that the coast presents.

“That is not to say they should not enjoy the coast, but it is to emphasise that they must take great care and plan their activities according to the conditions”

The photographs were taken (last Thurs) by a fossil hunter on the beach at Charmouth, who said:”I was horrified to see two adults and four children, all apparently under the age of ten, climbing the cliff. Mud was actually falling off the cliff at the time.

“I also saw two wellington boots stuck in the mud and presumably abandoned by their wearers.”

Coastguards, who have dealt with several incidents involving people cut off by the tide or trapped on cliffs, have also issued many warnings and advice.

Nick Bale, Station Officer at Lyme Regis Coastguard, said today (Sun): “We have carried out six rescues in the space of 72 hours. In all cases the casualties have put themselves in unnecessary danger through lack of forethought and ignoring straightforward advice and signage. Their rescuers have also been put into these dangerous situations.

“Coastguard advice remains very clear…do not put yourself at risk by climbing  cliffs or investigating muddy areas as you can easily become stuck. If you do become stuck, remain calm and keep as still as you can.

“If you find yourself in difficulty at sea, on the beach or the cliffs or if you see something which gives you cause for concern do not hesitate…dial 999 and ask for the coastguard.”

Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat was launched yesterday (Tuesday 19th Feb) to assist coastguards ashore following reports of two people cut off by the tide near Charmouth.

The lifeboat crew launched at 5.15pm and were quickly on scene, the casualties were attempting to walk in the shale mud landslides below the cliffs between Charmouth and Golden Cap. One of the volunteer crew swam in to help, they waited for the coastguard rescue helicopter and were winched up and taken to a landing site in Charmouth setup by the local coastguard teams.

The two people rescued were teachers from West London visiting the area for the day. One said “we are so grateful to everyone involved with rescuing us today and we’re ever so sorry for the inconvenience”

This was the second emergency call answered by the Lyme Regis RNLI volunteers to assist with people cut off by the tide in the last three days.

Nick Marks, Lifeboat Operations Manager said “We would encourage any visitor to the area to check tide times before walking along the beach, either Lyme Regis Tourist Information Centre or Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre. This half term week the local area is experiencing very high tides, so it is very important to check.”

Ken Lavery, chairman of the Lifeboat Week organisers said: ”We were sorry to postpone some events, but, of course our paramount concern is the safety of everyone taking part. And the forecast for the rest of the week was good so postponement seemed the best plan.’
INFO:  Swim Challenge and Bath Tub Race postponed
With BIG apologies but due to the inclement weather we have had to postpone today's swimming challenge. The Swimming Challenge will now take place this coming Friday, 3rd August. Registration between 4pm and 6.30pm at the RNLI kiosk on Marine Parade, the adult swimming challenge starts at 7pm, and the children's swimming challenge at 7.30pm.   In addition, the Great Bath Tub Race scheduled for tomorrow, Sunday 29th July will now move to this coming Thursday, 2nd August at 6pm, with registration at 5pm at Cobb Gate. Fingers crossed for better weather for us going forward and thanks for your understanding.

 

 
24 February 2018
ADDITIONAL
The Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat was launched twice again this afternoon, Sat 24th February, to search the West Bay area. Nothing was found. In total the crew were at sea for about four hours this afternoon

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