Windfarm boat first on scene as rescue drama unfolds off Little Orme

A windfarm vessel waits for an RNLI lifeboat to arrive
-Credit:RNLI Llandudno


A windfarm vessel sped to the aid of a paddleboarder and a canoeist in difficulties off the Conwy coast. Having been alerted to their plight, the crew went to check on the pair off Angel Bay on the Little Orme, Penrhyn Bay.

The boat then stood by while RNLI Llandudno’s crew was scrambled. It took less than three minutes for their inshore lifeboat to reach the scene on Saturday afternoon, February 1.

On arriving, the lifeboat crew found that the paddleboard had lost its keel blade, making it “nearly impossible to manoeuvre”. An RNLI spokesperson said: “The canoeist was fine but had stayed alongside the paddle boarder to ensure their safety.

ADVERTISEMENT

READ MORE: Llandudno youths 'kicked in 17 windows, started fire at hospital and stole from hotels'

READ MORE: Helicopter involved in multi-agency search for 'high risk' man on Anglesey

“The lifeboat’s helm decided the safest and most efficient rescue method was to bring both individuals aboard the lifeboat while towing their paddleboard and canoe alongside the lifeboat and back to shore. The casualties were safely transported to Penrhyn Bay, where they were met by Llandudno Coastguard for further assistance.”

The call-out was particularly significant for crew member Calum Darling. Having only joined the RNLI in October 2024, he recently completed his sea survival course in Poole and this was his first lifeboat rescue.

The paddleboard and canoeist were taken back to Penrhyn Bay alongside the lifeboat
The paddleboard and canoeist were taken back to Penrhyn Bay alongside the lifeboat -Credit:RNLI Llandudno
The call-out was the first rescue for new crew member Calum Darling
The call-out was the first rescue for new crew member Calum Darling -Credit:RNLI Llandudno

Of Calum, helm Robert Williams said it was a “memorable milestone in his RNLI journey”. Join the North Wales Live WhatsApp community group where you can get the latest stories delivered straight to your phone

ADVERTISEMENT

Mr Williams praised the rescued pair for their preparedness, saying: ‘The casualties were well prepared, with buoyancy aids and a way of contacting the coastguard when they got into difficulty.

“Our volunteers are always ready to respond and to assist those in difficulty at sea.” Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox

Find out what's happening near you