At 15:14hrs HM Coastguard requested the launch of our all weather boat, R & J Welburn, and our inshore lifeboat, George Bearman II, to reports of a swimmer being blown off shore in the water near Dawlish.
Both lifeboats were quickly launched into strong winds and choppy sea state, due to Storm Austen, and made best speed to the reported location of the casualty. As our crews arrived on scene, RNLI Teignmouth lifeboat, Claude and Kath, which had been tasked to the incident as well was also arriving on scene. Shortly before the lifeboats arrived the Coastguard helicopter had located the casualty and winched them ashore where Coastguard Rescue Teams were waiting on the beach.
Our lifeboats stood by off shore in case any further assistance was required before being stood down by HM Coastguard. The lifeboats returned to the station and made ready for the next shout.