The first call out at 17.00 was a report that a windsurfer may have been in trouble in the bay. National Coastwatch had seen two windsurfers on the water but then only one could be seen in the swell. Swanage Inshore Lifeboat and the Coastguard were tasked to search the area for the missing one.
The Coastguard team searched the shoreline whilst the lifeboat searched the bay. The all weather lifeboat was about to be launched when a lifeboat crew member directed the Coastguard team to a pair safely on the beach. Very quickly it was established both were very experienced and safely ashore. With the lack of wind ( just prior to a heavy rain shower ) one of them had to paddle ashore but was lost in a swell from the view of the informant.
As the search units returned to station further 999 calls were received for four person in the water off the stone quay. Again the team and lifeboat responded and searched the area.
A group of youths had been seen earlier in the water by the quay and there was concern this group were in trouble , thankfully what was seen were four marker buoys in the swell. It was also confirmed the group seen earlier had left.
We must praise those who made 999 calls for these calls , We would much rather confirm all is ok ( FAWGI) than not get a call to someone who really is in trouble
999 Coastguard for maritime emergencies
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