RNLI volunteers swiftly launched a search operation near Burnham Pier on the evening of Thursday, 10 September, following reports of a person in the water. The first lifeboat was deployed at 8.10 pm, with a second crew standing by to assist if required.
Initially, there was no visible sign of anyone in the water near the pier. Consequently, HM Coastguard directed the crew to extend their search along the shoreline from Lower Light down to the mouth of the River Brue, before returning to Burnham Pier.
The search was called off at 8.35 pm after new information confirmed that the individual was not in the water.
READ MORE: Man admits drugging and raping wife over two decades
READ MORE: Somerset Community Remembers Beloved Mothers, Sisters, and Family Members
Nigel Morton, Duty Launch Authority, commented: “It was reassuring to learn the individual had not entered the water on this occasion. Nevertheless, it was vital that we responded promptly and were ready to provide assistance if needed.”
He added: “When the alert sounded, some crew members were having their evening meal. Thankfully, they were able to return home afterwards to finish it. When those pagers go off, we drop everything to respond!”
This incident highlights the ongoing lifesaving commitment of the RNLI along the Somerset coast and beyond, amid challenging times for the charity. Recently, volunteers and staff have faced unacceptable abuse nationally, linked to protests opposing rescue operations involving small boat migrants.
In response, the RNLI has enhanced security measures and issued guidance to protect the wellbeing of its people. This includes advice on managing difficult encounters with the public and, where necessary, opting not to wear RNLI-branded clothing.
A spokesperson for the RNLI stated: “Our priority is the safety of our volunteers and staff. We encourage them to report any incidents internally and to the police when appropriate.”
The charity reiterated its long-standing commitment: “For over 200 years, RNLI crews have bravely rescued individuals in distress, without judgment or favour, wherever and whenever help is needed. In 2025, the RNLI launched over 9,000 times across the UK and Ireland, with only 1.2% related to incidents in the Channel. Those rescued are handed over to the relevant UK authorities for care. We express our gratitude to all who support the RNLI’s enduring mission to save lives at sea.”