Whitby lifeboat crews rescue experienced sea swimmer who had been in the sea for an hour

Both of Whitby’s lifeboats were launched on December 27 after it was reported an experienced swimmer who had set off from Sandsend had not returned at their expected time, and had spent more than an hour in the sea.

The lifeboat was quickly launched while the coastguard searched the coast on foot. The all-weather lifeboat was then also launched to help increase the chances of finding the missing swimmer. After broadening out the search into the deeper areas of the sea, Jonathan Marr, who was at the helm of the lifeboat, spotted the swimmer waving his arm.

He was quickly brought aboard and transferred to the all-weather lifeboat for medical treatment. Back on dry land, he was transferred to a waiting ambulance.

Mr Marr said: “We were so relieved to see the swimmer waving to us, at this time of year the water is extremely cold and the effects of the cold can take hold very quickly. We wish the swimmer a speedy recovery.

"This incident highlights the importance of letting someone know if you are swimming in the sea and what time you expect to get out, this can be the difference between a life saved and a life lost as every minute counts when something goes wrong.

"Also please remember to wear something bright, a tow float is great as this is easy to spot even in the surf, don’t spend too long in the water in winter, and if you do get into difficulty remember float to live - don’t panic, float on your back and raise an arm or shout for help.”