RNLI lifeguards carry out two mass rescues in one day on Cranfield Beach

Image: Nigel Millard

RNLI lifeguards sprang into action last Tuesday in two dramatic back-to-back mass rescues, just days after returning to full-time patrols on Cranfield Beach.

The first rescue occurred around 1.30pm when lifeguards Adam Mahon and Evan McConville were preparing for a training session. A distressed parent raised the alarm after noticing five children—three on a kayak and two paddleboarding—struggling against a strong current approximately 300 metres from the shore.

The two lifeguards immediately launched their rescue boards and paddled out to assist. The children on paddleboards were transferred onto the rescue boards, while Adam and Evan also helped guide the kayak back to safety.

Thankfully, although tired, none of the children required medical attention.

Only minutes later, lifeguard Catríona Sneedon, stationed in the RNLI hut, spotted a second group—this time a kayak and three paddleboarders—drifting perilously close to the shipping lane.

She issued a warning via loudspeaker and contacted the Coastguard as Adam and Evan returned to the water.

The experienced duo successfully reached the group and helped all five individuals return safely to the shore.

Commenting after the rescues, RNLI Lifeguard Evan McConville said:

“It was a busy day at Cranfield beach with back-to-back rescues. These two incidents show the importance of visiting a lifeguarded beach.

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

These rescues come as RNLI lifeguards return to full-time cover across County Down’s beaches for the summer season, continuing through to 31 August.

Find your nearest lifeguarded beach: rnli.org/find-my-nearest