Thurso RNLI crew rescues kayakers in Pentland Firth
Two holidaymakers were rescued by Thurso lifeboat volunteers yesterday after they were pushed miles away from John o’ Groats by the tides.
The RNLI volunteer crew were paged at 12.40 yesterday (Monday, May 20) after a member of the public reported that a small kayak looked like it was in difficulty in the Pentland Firth, west of Stroma.
The crew launched immediately with the Thurso relief lifeboat the Beth Sell rushed to the area, locating the kayak just west of St Johns Point at 1.20pm
A Thurso RNLI spokesperson said: “The man and woman on the kayak were taken on board the lifeboat and checked by casualty care trained crew members.
“The couple, who were on holiday in the area left John o’Groats harbour (yesterday) morning and went to Stroma, then left the island with the intention of returning to John o’Groats.
“Due to tides and wind, they were pushed west ending up several miles from John O’Groats. They were about to phone the Coastguard when they saw the lifeboat approaching.
“Thanks to the member of the public who phoned the Coastguard. In situations like this the RNLI would always encourage the public to report anything they feel is concerning.”
They said the couple were then taken back to Scrabster where the lifeboat was refuelled and made ready for service at 2.40pm.
The couple very kindly gave a donation to Thurso RNLI, and they were driven back to their accommodation in John o’Groats.
