A routine patrol by Isle of Wight Council Lifeguard John Ryan resulted in a rescue of a rower who was struggling to get to shore.
On Thursday 18 June at around 4pm on Ventnor Beach, John Ryan was in the water to inspect the state of the sea due to the weather conditions becoming rougher. He noticed what looked like an upturned boat, but on
closer inspection, he discovered it was a five metre rowing boat with a man trying to get to shore while pulling the boat.
John helped assist the man ashore while also pulling the boat, which has began sinking, onto the beach.
His colleagues, including Beach Concessionaire Sophie Blake also waded into the water to help bring the man and the boat ashore.
The rower had been attempting to go round the Island but got into trouble because of the rough seas and had decided to try and get ashore and save the boat.
Speaking about the rescue, John Ryan said "I raised the alarm with my colleagues and swam out to the man to help him. I was calm throughout which I think reassured the man when I reached him and got him and the boat back to shore.
Isle of Wight Council Director of Environment and Neighbourhoods Stuart Love said "Once again our lifeguards have demonstrated not only how invaluable they are, but also their dedication and professionalism to
rescue a man who was in trouble."