Visit to Anglesey Lifeboat Station: A Grateful Reflection

At the start of this month, members of Knottingley Canoe Club (KCC) were honoured to visit Holyhead Lifeboat Station on Anglesey. This visit held a special significance for our club, following a dramatic rescue in June 2024, when some of our kayakers were caught off guard by sudden, extreme weather conditions while paddling along the Anglesey coast. The swift actions of the Holyhead and Trearddur Bay RNLI teams ensured that all five members of our group were rescued safely.

The visit provided us with a unique opportunity to tour the lifeboat station, speak with the brave RNLI crew, and learn more about the essential safety protocols that can make all the difference when things go wrong at sea. One of the key people we met was Coxswain Mark, who was directly involved in the June rescue. He shared his experiences of the rescue and provided valuable insights into the station’s operations, highlighting how they track vessels, manage communications, and respond quickly to emergencies.

Lifeboat Tour and Safety Discussion

During our time at the station, we were given an in-depth tour of the lifeboat, which included an up-close view of the very vessel that came to our aid just a few months earlier. We were able to see how our kayaks had been safely stowed aboard during the rescue, as pictured here:

The crew also walked us through the operational charts used to navigate the sometimes unpredictable waters around Anglesey. These charts not only help in planning safe routes, but also demonstrate just how quickly kayakers can be swept out to sea if conditions change suddenly. The rescue crew showed how the tides, currents, and winds can carry a kayak far off course in a matter of minutes, emphasizing the importance of staying vigilant and prepared. Here’s a glimpse of the detailed maps used to monitor these areas:

Learning about Lifesaving Equipment

One of the most valuable lessons from the visit was a discussion about lifesaving equipment—specifically, personal locator beacons (PLBs). None of the kayakers involved in the June rescue had PLBs on them, which could have significantly aided the speed and accuracy of the search. The RNLI crew introduced us to PLBs and explained how these devices, when activated, transmit your exact location to search and rescue services, vastly improving response times. It’s a critical reminder that even experienced kayakers should never underestimate the importance of carrying a PLB, especially in open water. Here’s an example of the PLBs we discussed:

This knowledge will be invaluable as KCC continues to explore sea kayaking, especially in challenging areas like Anglesey. It’s a reminder that being well-equipped and prepared can be lifesaving in an emergency, and we will be encouraging our members to carry PLBs on future trips.

Showing Our Appreciation

At the end of our visit, KCC was proud to present a donation of £1,300 to Holyhead Lifeboat Station. This donation was spearheaded by our club secretary, Bob, who initiated the fundraising as part of his 66th birthday celebration. Bob’s generosity and commitment to giving back have inspired all of us at KCC, and this contribution will help support the station’s vital work, ensuring their equipment is always ready, and their crew well-prepared for future rescues. Here’s a photo of our group, including KCC members and RNLI crew, marking the occasion:

A Lasting Connection

Anglesey is a special place for our club, as we regularly embark on sea kayaking trips around its stunning coastline. The knowledge gained from this visit has reinforced our commitment to safety and has strengthened the bond between KCC and the RNLI. We left Holyhead Lifeboat Station with a deeper respect for the work these brave volunteers do and the peace of mind that comes with knowing they are always ready to help those in need at sea.

For those interested, you can read more about the original rescue in June here.

Happy Paddling!

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Knottingley Canoe Club is a welcoming and inclusive paddlesport community based in West Yorkshire. Offering a range of canoeing and kayaking experiences for all skill levels, including river paddling, sea kayaking, and white water adventures. Our pool sessions take place at Normanton Leisure in Wakefield, providing a safe and supportive environment for learning and training. Discover more about our activities, membership options, and how to connect with fellow paddlers at Knottingley Canoe Club.