Missing Swimmer Found Safe After Coastguard Search At Compton Bay

A swimmer reported missing off Compton Bay was found safe on Sunday (July 12) following a search involving Coastguard teams and a rescue helicopter.

HM Coastguard was alerted at around 6.30pm after concerns were raised when a man failed to return to shore.

Coastguard Rescue Teams from The Needles and Ventnor, supported by a Senior Coastal Operations Officer, searched the coastline between Compton Bay and Brook Beach, while Rescue Helicopter 375 from Lee-on-Solent was also deployed.

The helicopter was stood down shortly after arriving overhead when the swimmer was located safe and well.

The incident came on another busy day for the Island's coastal rescue teams.

Freshwater Independent Lifeboat was called to two separate incidents involving a capsized kayaker and six paddleboarders stranded in Watcombe Bay.

The lifeboat station is reminding anyone heading out on the water to check the weather, wind and tide conditions before setting off and to always wear a suitable buoyancy aid.