Exhausted kayaker rescued two miles offshore in the Solent

A KAYAKER had to be rescued two miles offshore by Portsmouth RNLI after getting into difficulties.
The rescue taking place. Picture: RNLIThe rescue taking place. Picture: RNLI
The rescue taking place. Picture: RNLI

Atlantic 85 Lifeboat, Norma T, was launched at 3pm yesterday to rescue a man who was struggling to paddle back to shore. 

The situation started about a mile from Langstone Harbour when two male kayakers were trying to make their way back to the beach.

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A statement from Portsmouth RNLI said the pair got into difficulty due to a fast out going tide and strong easterly wind which created difficult paddling conditions.

The rescue taking place. Picture: RNLIThe rescue taking place. Picture: RNLI
The rescue taking place. Picture: RNLI

Battling against a choppy sea one of the pair became exhausted and began to struggle. Eventually his partner made the decision to paddle ashore alone where he could raise the alarm and get help for his stranded companion.

Reaching Hayling beach he called emergency services and notified the coastguard.

The crew of three rushed to the man's last known position but were unable to locate the solo kayaker. Fortunately Helmsman Neil Maxwell was able to use his local knowledge to identify the likely direction of drift.

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Eventually the man, who had now drifted a further mile out to sea, was spotted.

A spokesman for Portsmouth RNLI said: '˜Once alongside the near-hypothermic man he was brought on board, warmed and returned to the boathouse and a waiting ambulance. Paramedics confirmed that further treatment was need and the man was taken to hospital for additional assessment.'

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