Swanage Coastguard of the Year

 

Swanage Coastguard – Coastguard of the Year 2025 

The Coastguard of the Year Award is presented annually in memory of the late Mike “Spike” Williamson, who served as a Coastguard for 30 years before sadly passing away in 2004.

This award recognises a team member who has shown dedication beyond the normal level, supporting the team in many different ways.

For 2025, the award goes to Steve “Westie” Westwood 👏

Westie has gone above and beyond in his support of the team, including his role as Mess Manager, where he oversees the day-to-day catering, hospitality, and administrative operations that help keep the team running smoothly.

The whole team would like to thank and congratulate Westie on this well-deserved recognition. 🌊🚨

#SwanageCoastguard #CoastguardOfTheYear #Teamwork #Dedication #WellDeserved

Light on cliff sparks search.

Coastguard teams, along with both Swanage RNLI lifeboats, were tasked following reports of a person stuck on Ballard Down after a light was seen partway up the cliff.

On arrival, it was confirmed the light was from a yacht close to shore with its mast light illuminated.

This was a false alarm with good intent, as from one side of the bay it did appear to be a person shining a light from the cliff.

Thankfully, no one was in danger. All Coastguard teams and lifeboats were stood down and returned to station.

Always call #Coastguard on 999 if you are unsure 🚨

The light from a different angle showing the yachts mast light 

Search for Reported Fishing Vessel off Peveril Point

Just after 9.00pm last night, HM Coastguard coordinated a multi-agency search following reports of a small fishing boat believed to be sinking off Peveril Point.

Coastguard Rescue Officers searched the shoreline while two RNLI lifeboats and a Coastguard Rescue Helicopter from Lee-on-the-Solent conducted extensive offshore searches. Despite freezing conditions, crews searched for over two hours.

No evidence of the vessel was found, and the sole person believed to be on board—thought to have come from Poole—has not been located. With no further information or reports of a missing person, the search was stood down pending any new information.

HM Coastguard coordinated a large search area throughout the operation.

Anyone with information that may assist is urged to contact the Coastguard by calling 999 and asking for the Coastguard.