Man and girl, 5, survive sea trauma

A man and his five-year-old daughter have been rescued after becoming lost in their boat in thick fog.

Falmouth Coastguard received a 999 call shortly before 6.20pm on Saturday evening from the man who said he had lost track of where he was.

He had to call the Coastguard on his mobile phone as his VHF radio on board was not working.

Falmouth Coastguard talked the man through his recent passage, taking in time and direction, before piecing together where the boat was likely to be.

Once a location had been determined, a Pan Pan alert was broadcast to see if any other boats in the area could help.

A nearby fishing vessel responded and managed to locate the man and his daughter approximately four miles off the coast of Padstow, Cornwall.

They were then guided back to the harbour, where they were met by the Padstow Coastguard Rescue Team.

Simon Dennis, watch officer at Falmouth Coastguard, said: “It was lucky that this man managed to get in touch with us so we could help track down his whereabouts and send rescue resources to help.

“With his VHF radio out of order, he had to rely on his mobile phone to raise the alarm. He also didn’t have any lifejackets on board. We always urge people to check the weather before they set off, just in case they get caught out in fog like this evening.

“You also need to make sure all your communications equipment on board is working so you can call for help if needed. We also want to take this opportunity to remind people to wear a lifejacket. It’s useless unless worn, and could save your life.”

Man and girl, 5, survive sea trauma