A boy being winched to safety at Perranporth on Christmas Eve after surfers got stuck in a rip current(Image: Maritime and Coastguard Agency)
A Cornwall mum dialled 999 from shore as three boys – including her own son – were swept up at sea in a powerful rip.
The emergency happened at Perranporth on Christmas Eve but the Maritime and Coastguard Agency has now shared more details and photos from the rescue mission, warning others of the risks.
Young beach-goers had been enjoying a festive surf when they got caught up in a strong rip current, which dragged them sideways towards the bay’s rocky cliffs.
An agency spokesperson said: “From the shore, local mum Gemma called the Coastguard as she watched her son disappear in the swell, with other surfers coming ashore confirming the boys were caught in the rip.
“As their surf lifesaving training taught them, Gemma’s son and his friend recognised the signs of a rip and stayed with their boards.
“They didn’t exhaust themselves struggling against the powerful rip current and soon the pair had been assisted to shore with a tow from local surfers.
“But Gemma’s relief was short-lived: another child had abandoned his surfboard and was swimming to the rocky cliffs nearby.”
A Coastguard Search and Rescue Helicopter was dispatched to rescue the boy, who was swooped up by the winch paramedic and safely returned to dry land on the beach.
Tom Furse, Rescue Centre Coordination Manager for Falmouth Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC), said: “In this instance, Gemma’s 999 call was essential. The quicker we’re informed, the quicker we can coordinate a lifesaving response.
“We want people to enjoy the beach and coastline, but swimming or surfing in the sea can come with risks.”
At the time, a spokesperson for HM Coastguard said: “At 12.37pm on Wednesday 24 December, HM Coastguard received reports of two young people caught in a rip while surfing at Droskyn Point, Perranporth.
“Coastguard Rescue Teams from St Agnes and Newquay were sent, along with RNLI St Agnes lifeboat and an HM Coastguard Search and Rescue Helicopter.
“One surfer self-recovered with the assistance of another surfer, while the second was rescued by helicopter.
“Both were reported safe and well with no further assistance required.”
Sharing advice with other surfers and swimmers, Tom added: “Check the weather and tide times, surf on a lifeguarded beach, ideally with a buddy, and learn how to watch for rip currents. Stay within your limits and always stay with your board. Wear a wetsuit that is suitable for the conditions and tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back.
“If you see someone in trouble in the sea or at the coast, always call 999 and ask the Coastguard.”
In response to the agency’s Facebook post yesterday (Friday, January 16), crews were commended for the safe rescue of the young surfers. One wrote: “Great combined effort all involved. It could have been a very different outcome.”
Another agreed: “Massive respect for the rescue teams, your work is truly appreciated. Thank you all.”
