Penarth RNLI hoax call is 'huge waste on resources'

A coastguard rescue helicopter was also needlessly used after a mayday call was issued which said a yacht was sinking off approximately six miles south-east of Penarth, with three people on board.

The six voluntary crews carried out a coordinated search pattern around the Flat Holm and Steep Holm islands, while a dredging vessel - the Arco Dart - also assisted in the search.

After an investigation by the coastguard team, it was deemed to be a hoax call and they stood down at around 10.30pm.

Crew training prior to the shout. Photo credit RNLI/ Andy Gavan

The volunteers from the four separate RNLI stations returned home and prepared each lifeboat for its next service.

Nigel Parry, crew member at Barry Dock, said: "We usually get a couple of these hoax calls a year, but to have it on the first exercise for the Barry Dock boat straight after lockdown is especially annoying and a big drain on resources.

"We are having difficulty raising money at the moment, and each exercise requires a lot of resourcing including implementing appropriate Covid safety measures.

"It would be helpful if people helped us to minimise needless exercises as much as possible."

If you do see anyone in difficulty please dial 999 and ask for the coastguard.