St Ives RNLI is recording its busiest year ever, with more than 85 service launches already in 2025.
That’s more than double the 34 launches in 2024.
The rise reflects wider trends across the UK and Ireland, with RNLI crews responding to more swimmer, paddleboarder, kayaker incidents and mental health crises.
Despite the rising demand, the volunteer lifeboat crew at St Ives have continued to show extraordinary commitment, not only in launching and recovering the lifeboats, but also in the unseen hours of training, fundraising and raising awareness of water safety in the community.
Dickon Berriman, area operations manager, said: “We experienced a very busy summer around our coast with warm, settled weather providing the opportunity to enjoy the beaches and waters around St Ives.”
“Inevitably this led to an increase in incidents.
“The St Ives Lifeboat team have risen to the challenge with courage and commitment.
“There is a lot to maintaining this service which goes unseen, hours of training, restrictions of living on a pager and disruption to family life.
“Our volunteers are incredible as are their families who support what they do.”
“If you’re planning on enjoying a sea swim or cold-water dip over the festive period, you should always carry a means of calling for help.
“This could be a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch.”
“Remember, if you don’t have any mobile phone signal, don’t panic.”
“You can still try calling 999 or 112, even if your own mobile phone network has no coverage.
“Your phone will try to connect to any other network available.”
The St Ives crew ensure the lifeboat service continues to save lives at sea, relying on the generosity of supporters and the resilience of volunteers.
The station is now recruiting for new boat and shore crew roles.
They describe it as “It’s an exciting time to become involved with St Ives Lifeboat Station, offering a unique opportunity to join a remarkable team, learn new skills and make a real difference in our community.”