Two RNLI lifeboats from Cardigan, the Altantic 75 and the station’s new D-class lifeboat were launched just before 1.30pm today (12 February). The volunteer RNLI crew from New Quay were called to action and the station’s all-weather RNLI lifeboat was launched at 1.35pm.
A helicopter from RAF Valley is also assisting in the search which is being co-ordinated by Milford Haven Coastguard. Several local fishing boats are also involved in helping to look for the fisherman who was on board a 37ft vessel.
Bob Reynolds, RNLI Deputy Launch Authority at Cardigan says:
‘Conditions are flat calm which enabled Cardigan’s Altantic 75 lifeboat to quickly reach the scene and search the area. The lifeboats will shortly return to the station to refuel and detailed searches will continue.’
The call-out comes less than 24 hours after the volunteer RNLI crew from New Quay assisted in the rescue of a base jumper, who crashed into cliffs close to Cwmtydu. The casualty was located by an RNLI volunteer surrounded by undergrowth 300 feet up on the cliff. He was winched to safety by a rescue helicopter from RAF Chivenor and taken to hospital. Rescue helicopter 169 from RAF Chivenor was called to the scene and the RNLI crew directed the rescuers towards the man.
