Lifeboat launched to help 'cold' kayaker clinging to boat in Anglesey harbour

A kayaker clinging to their boat off the coast of Anglesey was rescued after lifeboat volunteers were alerted. Holyhead RNLI was called at 4.45pm on Wednesday after reports of a kayaker in trouble within Holyhead harbour.

The coastguard, observing the scene from their base at Newry Beach, initially feared one kayaker was in the water, and another was on the rocks nearby. After Holyhead RNLI's D-class inshore lifeboat was launched, a man was immediately found clinging onto his kayak.

His buoyancy aid was riding above his head as a zip fastening had broken and there was no clutch strap, an RNLI spokesman said. They added: "The casualty was retrieved onto the lifeboat and assessed for any injuries or any intake of water.

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"He was found to be well apart from feeling cold, so a blanket was placed over him. His kayak was then also retrieved. A second kayak, with no person on board, was also spotted, but the casualty informed the crew that there was no one aboard, and he was alone with both kayaks."

The casualty and kayaks were returned to dry land. The casualty was given some advice regarding using correct personal protective equipment, the RNLI spokesman said.

Holyhead Lifeboat Operations Manager David Owens said: "We always advise anyone enjoying the local waters to be wearing a suitable, well-maintained buoyancy aid or lifejacket, even if they are close to shore. We’re glad that on this occasion we were able to reach the casualty extremely quickly, and he was safe and well after this incident.

"Our thanks as always go to our coastguard volunteer colleagues for their swift attendance to assist us with this gentleman."

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