RNLI Fishguard Lifeboat’s volunteer crew was paged yesterday at 3:32pm after a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) was activated near Strumble Head. Further information revealed that three PLBs had been triggered, suggesting multiple casualties.

The RNLI St Davids Lifeboat was also launched, alongside teams from HM Coastguard Fishguard, St Davids, Dale, and a rescue helicopter.

Upon arrival, a group of seven experienced sea kayakers was found struggling against worsening conditions as darkness fell. Located beneath cliffs, their attempts to call for help using VHF radios and 999 were unsuccessful, prompting them to activate their PLBs.

The Fishguard volunteer crew worked meticulously to recover the kayakers one at a time. Four kayaks were brought aboard Fishguard Lifeboat, while St Davids Lifeboat retrieved the remaining three.

Casualty assessments identified one kayaker suffering from the cold. Crew trained in casualty care provided assistance during the return journey to Fishguard.

At Lower Town, the two lifeboats collaborated to transfer all equipment to Fishguard Lifeboat before the casualties and their possessions were handed over to HM Coastguard Fishguard.

Preparedness saves lives

The kayakers were praised for their preparedness, having carried the correct equipment and staying together during the ordeal. Their decision to activate multiple PLBs provided a clear indication of the number of casualties and their location, facilitating a swift response.

The RNLI reminds all water users to carry adequate safety equipment, keep means of communication within reach, and consider factors like cliffs that may hinder emergency calls. Proper preparation and planning can make a vital difference in emergencies.

DRIVERS were urged to exercise caution earlier today (Sunday, Dec 1) after heavy overnight rain caused localised flooding across South Pembrokeshire.

The B4320 between Monkton and Hundleton was closed in both directions at 9:30am, with police shutting the stretch between Mill Back and Bowett Close. Dyfed-Powys Police advised road users to avoid the area and use alternative routes.

The B4318 at Gumfreston was also closed after officers described road conditions as “extremely poor.” Nearby, Clicketts Lane was affected by floodwater.

Earlier in the day, the A478 between New Hedges and Pentlepoir was also closed due to flooding but reopened by mid-morning.

Not all drivers heard advice to avoid flooded roads in time. At Quoits Mill on the B4320, one motorist became stranded in floodwater. Fortunately, help arrived to tow the vehicle from its waterlogged position.

Photo credit: Martin Cavaney Photography

HAVERFORDWEST Town Council has welcomed a new member following its meeting on Thursday (Nov 21).

Mr Kishore Manikonda was co-opted onto the council and will represent The Garth Ward.

County Councillor for Castle Ward, Thomas Tudor, expressed his enthusiasm for the appointment. Speaking to The Herald, Cllr Tudor said: “I look forward to working closely with Councillor Manikonda on Haverfordwest issues and offer my support and congratulations to him on his appointment.”

Councillor Manikonda joins the council at a time when collaboration across wards is seen as crucial for addressing local matters effectively.