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Search forLifeguard saves boys in rocks drama near Bude
Tuesday, August 19, 2008, 16:17
Ross Hambley managed to reach the terrified youngsters despite rough seas that had prevented crews from a lifeboat and RNLI jet-ski from saving them.
The 20-year-old lifeguard spent half and hour keeping them safe until they were winched aboard a helicopter from RNAS Culdrose.
The dramatic rescue off Crooklets on Sunday afternoon began when a member of the public alerted the emergency services after seeing the boys, aged 13 and 15, in danger on Wrangles Rocks.
The young holidaymakers from Essex had been rock climbing, but had been cut off by a fast incoming tide.
Local coastguards, the Bude lifeboat and RNLI jet-ski were on standby as the rescue began.
This week Mr Hambley recounted the situation he found the boys in when he managed to swim to the rock and reach the two lads.
"They were obviously frightened to death, particularly the youngest boy. They were only wearing shorts and T-shirts, so they were getting very cold and I was worried about them getting hypothermia if we had to stay there for some time.
"They had cuts and bruises and I just tried to console them and tell them everything would be OK.
"They were shaking, so the three of us got into a huddle so I could keep them warm, but the tide was getting higher, and I had to move them to the highest point of the rock, which wasn't easy in the conditions, which were horrible with a big tide and swell coming in so quickly. The Wrangles is a dodgy area anyway, but for me, it was a case of the adrenalin kicking in I suppose, and I just wanted to make sure the kids were safe.
"We were on the rock for about 30 minutes until the helicopter arrived and winched us up.
"One of the helicopter crew told me I'd done a good job, which was really rewarding,'' said Mr Hambley.
The 20-year-old's father, Ted, is also an RNLI lifeguard and he was on the jet-ski standing by and watched his son go to the aid of the stricken youngsters. Steve Instance, RNLI divisional inspector, said everyone involved had done a terrific job.
"The rescue was a great example of team work – it shows just how important joint training exercises are, and the expertise and specialist equipment each service brings to a rescue.
"Ross showed great courage in swimming through the Wrangles.
"I'm glad he was able to reach the boys and they returned safe and well.''
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