RNLI lifeguard Eva Jones rescues bodyboarder in 9ft surf at Portrush

RNLI lifeguard Eva Jones

RNLI praises swift response as lifeguard Eva Jones aids bodyboarder caught in 9ft surf and strong winds

An RNLI lifeguard has been praised for her swift action after rescuing a bodyboarder in distress at Portrush West Strand on Monday afternoon, 5 August.

Eva Jones, a senior RNLI lifeguard, was on routine patrol when she spotted the male bodyboarder around 50 metres offshore.

The casualty had become separated from his board and was battling powerful 9-foot waves and strong onshore winds — challenging conditions lingering in the aftermath of Storm Floris.

Recognising the urgency of the situation, Eva drove the All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) 100 metres along the beach to get closer to the man before entering the water with a rescue tube. Once she reached him, she secured the tube around him to keep him afloat and guided them both safely back to shore.

The bodyboarder, though exhausted, was assessed at the scene and did not require further medical attention.

Speaking after the incident, RNLI Senior Lifeguard Eva Jones said:

“Although Storm Floris had passed, it had left behind strong onshore winds and large swells which made today’s rescue challenging. Luckily the bodyboarder was at a lifeguarded beach and we could save him.”

The RNLI has reminded beachgoers of the importance of visiting lifeguarded beaches and knowing what to do in an emergency.

“If you find yourself in difficulty or see someone else in trouble either on the beach or in and around the water,” the RNLI advises, “raise your hand and call for help, or call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.”

The charity continues to encourage the public to check beach safety information and weather conditions before entering the sea, particularly when swells and surf can become unpredictable following storms.

To find your nearest RNLI lifeguarded beach, visit: RNLI Beach Finder