Sidmouth lifeboat saves kayaker off Branscombe

Sidmouth Independent Lifeboat saved a kayaker in difficulty off Branscombe on Monday (4 September).

They were called out just before 12.30pm and found the person quickly, who was in the water and holding on to their kayak, despite "fairly choppy sea conditions".

The crew brought them onboard the lifeboat, took them to HM Coastguard on Branscombe beach, then retrieved the kayak.

The casualty received first aid and although they had been in the water for around an hour, they were deemed well enough to go home.

A Sidmouth Independent Lifeboat spokesperson said: "Sidmouth Independent Lifeboat would like to remind everyone of the importance of wearing a lifejacket or appropriate buoyancy aid when out on the water and keeping a phone or appropriate radio with you at all times.

"Research has proven that wearing a lifejacket can increase your chances of survival by up to four times if you're immersed in cold water.

"No matter how experienced you are, the sea can always surprise you and a lifejacket or buoyancy aid could save your life."