The volunteer crew of the Penlee lifeboat were launched on their thirteenth and final shout of July when a volunteer crew member alerted the cox Patch Harvey of a lone kayaker in difficulty near Penzance harbour.

Following a brief conversation with Falmouth Coastguard it was agreed to launch the inshore lifeboat Paul Alexander, the three man crew quickly located the kayak approximately one mile offshore. Whilse in no immediate trouble, the man was confused and it was apparent that back up assistance was required. 

Whilst the inshore lifeboat was returning to Newlyn harbour to pick up a police officer, the all-weather lifeboat Ivan Ellen’s daughter boat was launched to provide additional support.

With both boats on scene the incident was soon dealt with and the casualty returned to Newlyn harbour.

Cox Patch Harvey said: "It has been an extremely month, not only did the crew respond to thirteen shouts, but we also went through a two day annual inspection, a three day first aid course, crew training, a busy and successful fund raising event in Mousehole.

"It is a credit to the commitment and dedication of the crew that we can launch at such short notice, day or night, when the crew are volunteers giving up time from work, family and friends to provide the service that we are all proud of."