Pictures show tough conditions as RNLI volunteers pull swimmer from sea

The charity volunteers’ two lifeboats joined the city's Coastguard Rescue Team and the service’s helicopter and members of the Coastwatch based at Roker following an alert at 10.30am on Saturday, December 5.

The 67-year-old man was one of two swimmers who became separated from a group of six at Roker, with the fifth able to get back to shore.

The others raised the alarm, with the Coastwatch helpers able to spot the missing man in the water after he was carried out between the piers at Roker.

He wast located quarter of a mile outside the piers at Roker by the helicopter thanks to his orange tow float, an inflatable buoy open water swimmers are recommended to wear, and was pulled on to its inshore boat before being transferred onto its larger vessel and taken to the marina.

The float has been credited with saving his life by the RNLI as it today shared images taken during the operation.

A spokesperson for the RNLI said: “Images taken during yesterday’s incident involving an open water swimmer demonstrate how difficult the conditions were for RNLI volunteers outside the harbour and just how vital the swimmers floatation device was to him staying afloat, being located and his ultimate survival.”

Once back at the lifeboat station, the swimmer, who had been wearing a wetsuit and visible hat, was warmed up and given care and handed over to paramedics from the North East Ambulance Service.

He was then taken to hospital for treatment for hypothermia and a suspected hip injury.

The RNLI has said the recent rainfall during the last few days had created an unusually strong current in the area, with the fresh water travelling down the River Wear and tide going out causing the difficult conditions.

The Coastguard, along with the RNLI, has recommended anyone taking part in outdoor swimming to wear a wetsuit, use a tow float, carry a Personal Location Beacon (PLB), stick to swimming in groups and tell someone of their intentions and the expected time of return.

Donations to the RNLI can be gifted via https://rnli.org/support-us/give-money/donate while more safety advice on open water swimming can be found by clicking here.

Support your Echo and become a subscriber today.

Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest on SAFC and new puzzles every day. With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content.

Click here to subscribe.