Man cut off by sea at Orcombe Point

Second lifeboat rescue in 10 days

For the second time in 10 days, Exmouth's lifeboat has been called to rescue someone cut off by the tide at the foot of cliffs at Orcombe Point.

The coastguard was called just after 6 p.m. as darkness fell with a report that someone was waist-deep in water with the tide incoming. Exmouth Coastguard Rescue team were also alerted.

The RNLI's inshore liifeboat was on the scene within five minutes. By the time they arrive, the man, in his twenties, had made his way onto the beach east of Orcombe Point, but was unable to reach safety. The area between Orcombe Point and Sandy Bay is cut off at high tide

The crew helped the man to board the lifeboat and he was taken back to Exmouth's lifeboat station. He was wet and very cold but otherwise uninjured and did not require medical assistance.

The lifeboat was back ready for service at 6.38 p.m.

Rescue route from lifeboat station, Exmouth (left) to Orcombe Point (to the right)

Helm David Preece said: “This is the second incident in just a few days where someone has got cut off by the tide at Orcombe Point. As previously, I must reiterate the advice for those using the beach to always check the locality, weather and tides before venturing out. Further significant cliff falls have occurred in this region that makes leaving that location other than via the beach very risky. I also noticed a number of onlookers on top of those cliffs standing very close to the cliff edge during this rescue and I would urge members of the public to take extra care as the cliff face is extremely fragile. We were pleased that this rescue had a successful outcome.”  

RNLI advice on beachgoers and water users is : 
- Have a plan - check the weather forecast, tide times and read local hazard signage

• Keep a close eye on your family – on the beach and in the water
• Don’t allow your family to swim alone
• Don’t use inflatables
• If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE. Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and Float
• In an emergency dial 999, and ask for the Coastguard