RNLI: Local fisherman among three rescued as Storm Ashley triggers Flint lifeboat callouts

Flint RNLI responded to two separate emergencies on Sunday, 20 October, as Storm Ashley brought high winds and dangerous tidal conditions to the North Wales coast.

The volunteer crew, fresh from a morning training exercise, were tasked by HM Coastguard to rescue three people in two separate incidents.

The first call came at 1.15 PM, when a Mayday was received from a yacht drifting half a mile off Llannerch-y-Mor after suffering engine and rigging failure.

Flint RNLI’s lifeboat, led by Carly McCarthy on her first rescue mission since being appointed helm, immediately made its way to the yacht despite challenging conditions caused by increasing winds and strong tidal currents.

Once on scene, the two people onboard were quickly located and brought onto the lifeboat.

Volunteer crew members trained in casualty care checked them over before taking them to safety at Greenfield Dock.

The rescue took place in difficult weather, with the crew navigating worsening seas as the effects of Storm Ashley intensified.

As the lifeboat arrived back at Greenfield Dock with the rescued yacht passengers, a second call for assistance was received from HM Coastguard.

A fisherman had become stranded at Connah’s Quay, knee-deep in water due to a large tidal surge.

Without delay, the RNLI crew set out again, navigating the increasingly rough seas to reach the fisherman.

On arrival, the fisherman was found safe but in need of assistance to reach shore.

Two crew members helped guide him to safety, where he was handed over to the care of the Flint Coastguard Rescue Team.

Following this second rescue, the lifeboat was recovered at Connah’s Quay Dock before being returned to the RNLI station to be refuelled, cleaned, and prepared for future service.

Bill Dewsbury, Flint RNLI Launch Authority, praised the individuals involved for their quick thinking. “The casualties involved in the incidents took the correct actions when they found themselves in difficulty. They all had a means of calling for help, using VHF radios and mobile phones to alert the coastguard for assistance,” he said.

Both incidents highlight the critical role of the RNLI during extreme weather events, with Storm Ashley bringing challenging conditions to coastal areas.

The charity relies on volunteers and donations to provide its life-saving services, offering aid to those in distress at sea, no matter the weather.

The crew’s swift and professional responses during these two incidents ensured that all three people were safely brought ashore without injury.

Storm Ashley has caused widespread disruption along the Welsh coast, reinforcing the importance of being prepared for sudden changes in weather, especially for those working or sailing at sea.

Flint RNLI urges all those on the water to ensure they have reliable communication methods and to contact HM Coastguard in case of emergency.