There’s no doubt that the UK has some magnificent coastlines, with beautiful beaches and stunning seas that make the perfect place for a dip, almost any time of year. But even the most experienced swimmers can get into trouble, and that’s exactly what happened to Ella, whose story could have ended differently if it wasn’t for a few vital choices.
Just like any other day, Ella headed to Little Fistral beach for a dip in the ocean. A regular and experienced swimmer, Ella was familiar with the area and had prepared before heading out to the coast. Equipped with a pink tow float and matching swimming cap, she was ready for her refreshing dip.
Despite the preparation she had undertook, Ella found herself in difficulty and was swept out to sea, unable to make it back to shore. Her decision to take brightly coloured accessories would end up helping to save her life.
Spotting the brightly coloured tow float and swimming cap from the shore, a passer-by noticed that something wasn’t right and called 999 for the Coastguard.
It was just before 12.45pm that the call came into HM Coastguard, with the caller giving regular updates on where the swimmer was. Newquay and Padstow coastguard rescue teams were sent along with both Newquay RNLI lifeboats and the coastguard helicopter from Newquay.
Matt Rogers, Team Leader with HM Coastguard said: “This swimmer had done a considerable amount to give herself a chance of being rescued if things went wrong. She not only had a float that was a bright pink colour but was wearing a hat of the same colour too. It meant our caller could help give us information that enabled the swimmer to be rescued quickly.
