Exmouth RNLI were called out to the aid of three kitesurfers in difficulty on the River Exe.

At around 12 noon on Wednesday, October 18, the inshore lifeboat following a report of three kitesurfers struggling against the tide close to the River Exe Estuary. 

In windy conditions and choppy seas, the lifeboat, manned by Henry Mock, Mark Cockman and Jake Butt launched at 12:03pm and immediately sped to the scene, reaching the kitesurfers at 12.11pm.

All three casualties had tied to a mooring, unable to get back to the beach. They were taken on board the lifeboat to the safety of shore at Belshers Slipway. None of them were injured or required medical treatment.

The volunteer crew then returned to the scene where they recovered the kitesurfers' equipment to avoid it becoming a hazard to other water users.

Having successfully completed the tasking, the lifeboat crew were stood down by H.M. Coastguard at 12.27pm at which time they returned to Exmouth Lifeboat Station. Once back on station, the lifeboat was then made ready for service a short time later.