Lifeboat crew rescue capsized kayaker in dangerous waters after dramatic call-out
A kayaker was rescued off the coast of North Berwick after being spotted clinging to their overturned craft in choppy waters.
The alarm was raised at around 7.30pm on Saturday, July 26, when worried members of the public called the coastguard to report a kayak had capsized near Fidra Island.
North Berwick RNLI volunteers rushed from the town's Pipe Band 125th Anniversary celebrations, sprinting through crowds on foot and bike to reach their station.
They launched within minutes and, guided by Aberdeen Coastguard Rescue Coordination Centre, were on the scene in just seven minutes, reports EdinburghLive.
Volunteer helm Matthew Gibbons said: 'With the glare of the low sun, and the size of the waves the casualty was hard to spot. They had also drifted about half a nautical mile from the first reported position.
'Despite being a little tired from grappling with the slippery kayak for at least half an hour, the casualty was fit and well. We thank the members of the public who called 999 for the Coastguard straight away, which enabled a swift and successful outcome for the casualty.'
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The kayaker was brought ashore at Yellowcraig Beach and checked over by North Berwick Coastguard Rescue Team before being reunited with family.
RNLI chiefs have urged people heading out on the water to always wear a lifejacket, carry a waterproofed means of calling for help, and let someone know their plans.
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