An RNLI lifeboat was called to rescue a yachtsman who fell into the River Exe near Topsham. On Thursday, March 21, HM Coastguard requested the launch of the RNLI Exmouth lifeboat following reports a 35-foot yacht has become stuck near Topsham and an individual had fallen into the water.

The ILB D-805 George Bearman II and three volunteer crew members launched at 6.55pm and quickly made their way to the water where the incident had been reported. After reaching the vessel, the crew confirmed the yachtsman had managed to get himself out of the water.

The man said he was comfortable to stay onboard the yacht until it could be suitably refloated on the next tide. After determining there was no further risk to the person, the crew were stood down and returned back to their station shortly after 8pm.

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In a statement, RNLI Exmouth said: "At 6.47pm this evening H.M. Coastguard requested the launch of the RNLI Exmouth lifeboat to the report of a 35 foot yacht aground near Topsham and an individual from this yacht who had fallen into the water.

"The ILB D-805 George Bearman II and three volunteer crew launched at 6.55pm and made best speed to the reported location. Upon arriving at the vessel the crew were quickly able to establish contact with the yachtsman and confirm that he had self recovered from the water and was comfortable staying onboard until it could be refloated on the next suitable tide.

"Satisfied there was no further risk to the individual, H.M. Coastguard stood down the volunteer crew and they returned to station at 8.05pm and made the lifeboat ready again for service."

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