Swimmer 'lucky' after no-swim zone rescue

A swimmer who found themselves in difficulties in Looe River, where swimming is banned, was rescued by RNLI volunteers.

Two swimmers entered the river off Pennyland, West Looe, but the outgoing tide and choppy conditions due to strong easterly winds meant they started struggling against the tide.

One of the swimmers managed to get back onto land, but the other was rescued after they were found downstream close to the estuary, uninjured but tired from swimming.

Dave Jackman, Looe's assistant harbour master, said: "This incident highlights one of the reasons there are harbour bylaws prohibiting swimming in Looe river."

He said: "As the tide goes out the underlying currents are deceptive, and as seen this afternoon it is difficult and exhausting to swim against the river current and tidal flow.

"The casualty was lucky that their situation was witnessed [by] members of public who called 999 for assistance."

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