THERE were concerns for a swimmer in distress off Nells Point as Barry’s new Shannon class all-weather lifeboat begun being put to use.

On, Wednesday, June 19, Barry Dock RNLI had to call outs.

One was to concern for a missing swimmer at Nells Point, with the search extending to Rhoose Point.

The other was a yacht gone aground.

A RNLI spokesperson explained: “June 19 was a busy day at Barry Dock RNLI for our volunteer crew with multiple incidents involving both our lifeboats and coordinated multi-agency working. 

“It was also the first service call for our new RNLI Shannon class all-weather lifeboat, Richard and Caroline Colton II. 

“With an early wake-up call, working with Barry Coastguard and Maritime and Coastguard Agency helicopter Rescue 187, to search for a reported swimmer in distress off Nells Point.

“With the out-going tide, the search pattern soon extended as far west as Rhoose Point. 

“With three swimmers having been identified as swimming from Jackson's Bay to the Old Harbour who were safe and well, it turned out to be a call with good intent.”

On the second incident of the day, the spokesperson said: “This involved a yacht aground at Llantwit Major beach, and RNLI was in attendance to ensure the well-being of the occupants on-board. 

“As the yacht was aground with an out-going tide, the teams from Llantwit Major Coastguard were on scene to ensure the safety of the vessel and those on board.”

The marooned yachtThe marooned yacht (Image: Barry Dock RNLI)

The team on the new Shannon Class lifeboatThe team on the new Shannon Class lifeboat (Image: Barry Dock RNLI)

The RNLI went on to give advice about being in the water on the busy Bristol Channel.

“With open water and wild swimming being very popular, a brightly coloured flotation device is an essential piece of kit, as it can be seen at a greater distance, particularly in the busy Bristol Channel with shipping and local vessel traffic. 

“In the event of an emergency dial 999 or 112 and ask of the Coastguard. Or on VHF Channel 16.”