A lost oar saw Falmouth inshore lifeboat launched to help a punt rower in Falmouth inner harbour.

Falmouth Coastguard requested that Falmouth Inshore Lifeboat be launched following reports of a rowing punt struggling in the prevailing weather conditions in Falmouth Inner Harbour on Thursday.

The Inshore Lifeboat launched from her slipway at 10:19 and arrived on scene at 10:20. The 12ft punt with one person on board was located between Custom House Quay and the Falmouth Docks where it was being helped by another workboat.

The punt was taken in tow by the inshore lifeboat back to Custom House Quay where it was safely secured at 10:36. The inshore lifeboat was then released to return to its station.

The Inshore Lifeboat was back on its slipway by 10:38 where it was refuelled, rehoused and ready for service by 10:50.

An RNLI spokesman said that the the single occupant of the punt had been rowing out to another boat when he had lost an oar. With the prevailing weather conditions he found it impossible to make headway and was "very grateful for the help he received in getting back to the quay".

  • Lifeboat: Inshore Lifeboat
  • Date: 05/12/13
  • Service: Person in punt in difficulties
  • Crew: Neil Capper (Helmsman), Diane Bush, Tom Bird
  • Location: Falmouth Inner Harbour
  • Weather: NW 5, Moderate Sea and Slight Swell, Good Visibility, Sunny Periods