Lifeboat crews battle against Storm Ciara

AS Storm Ciara battered the UK and Ireland over the weekend, RNLI lifeboat crews were ready and willing to launch to those in need of rescue.

Hastings lifeboat crew battled the waves after reports came in of a surfer in trouble. In the video above, you can see the dramatic footage of the lifeboat navigating the choppy seas that shows just how severe the conditions were. Thankfully the surfer was able to make their own way to safety and the lifeboat and crew were all okay.

Falmouth lifeboat crew were asked to evacuate a person who needed medical attention from a tanker. They launched the relief Severn class lifeboat Volunteer Spirit just after 2pm and, battling force 7 wind conditions, the crew transferred the person onto the lifeboat for taking him back to the lifeboat station, where they received further medical attention.

Oban lifeboat launched twice on Saturday. The first was to a group of divers who were reported to be in difficulty south of Oban. The lifeboat arrived on scene in the rough conditions, but thankfully the divers had already been assisted by a coastguard team. The second launch came shortly after they returned to station, when one of the crew spotted a dinghy loose in the harbour. They launched to ensure no-one was onboard. Spotting a name on the side of the dinghy, the coastguard were able to locate the owner who was safe and well onshore.

Llandudno lifeboat were tasked to assist a fisherman who was having difficulty returning to shore. The inshore lifeboat and her crew were able to locate the fisherman and ensure he was all safe and well.

When the call to rescue comes in, RNLI lifeboat crews are ready to launch. 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Even when the conditions would cause most to turn back. If someone needs their help, they will do all they can to rescue them. But they can only do it with support from people like you. Will you help our crews brave the storm by making a donation?

Videos: Courtesy of RNLI