Sidmouth Independent Lifeboat rescues two from dinghy after nighttime search off Sidmouth Beach

August 13, 2025

Date: 13.08.25

Time Paged: 22:00

Callout #: 13

Sidmouth Independent Lifeboat was tasked to search for a small dinghy with two persons onboard, which had been seen launching off Sidmouth beach in the dark. Members of the public had contacted the Coastguard concerned for the safety of the individuals in the vessel.

Once launched and on scene, the Lifeboat used white illuminate flares, infrared binoculars and search lights to locate the casualty vessel which was approximately one mile off Sidmouth. After assessing the two persons onboard, they were brought onboard the Lifeboat and a tow line attached to the vessel.

Sidmouth Independent Lifeboat then proceeded back to the shore, where the vessel was recovered by the Coastguard. Sidmouth Lifeboat conducted a stern recovery, and once recovered, the two casualties were handed over to the Coastguard.

Boat Crew: Guy Bennett (Helm), Mark Davies, Stephen Waller, Henry Williams

Tractor Driver: Graham Trude

DLA: Ian Fletcher

Shore Crew: Alex Russell, Richard Burns, Andy Hardy, Adrian Blight, Mike Dance, Phil Shepperd

Photo Credit: Richard Burns

All enquiries: media@sidmouthlifeboat.org.uk

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