Award for lifeguards as 'heroic' rescue saves life

The "heroic actions" of lifeguards in south Devon have been recognised with a special award after they saved a swimmer's life in a complex rescue.

RNLI lifeguards Noah Hindley and Matt Pyman received the charity's Alison Saunders Award earlier this month, after they rescued a swimmer who had got into difficulty near Bantham beach in south Devon, in September 2024.

The pair were given the accolade in recognition of their "outstanding professionalism, leadership and contribution to saving lives".

The rescue involved entering the water to reach the casualty, who was clinging to the rocks about 1000ft (300m) away from where he had entered the water, and guiding him to safety.

RNLI lead lifeguard supervisor Rob Stuteley praised the team: "While the casualty was extremely lucky with the way he was eventually able to climb the cliff, this incident could have ended very differently, and we are incredibly proud of our team for their courage and professionalism.

"In particular, Noah and Matt showed exceptional decision making, skill and carefully calculated selflessness.

"Had the lifeguards not been on duty and the casualty had remained clinging to the rocks, it is likely that helicopter winching would have been the only other viable method of recovery in the conditions."

In the rescue, teams battled their way through eight-to-10ft (3m) waves in poor conditions, while in the middle of a Met Office yellow weather warning for strong winds and heavy rain.

As well as a glass trophy and framed certificates, Hindley and Pyman have been awarded £500 to further their lifeguard training.

Pyman reflected on the rescue: "It was one of the most challenging scenarios I've faced as a lifeguard; we were tackling pretty big surf and the casualty, when we found him, was soaking and freezing on the rocks.

"It was also one of the best experiences I've had as a lifeguard.

"Ultimately seeing the casualty reach safety was really rewarding."

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