Burnham-On-Sea Coastguards were called to Brean on Saturday afternoon (January 23rd) amid concern for the welfare of those on a fishing boat.
A walker reported seeing several lights on a boat located in the waters off the end of Brean Down and raised the alarm to Coastguards.
Burnham Coastguard Officer Dave Welland said: “Our Rescue 187 helicopter was launched from Wales to check on the boat and when those onboard gave a thumbs-up to the pilot, we were stood down.”
“This was a false alarm with good intent, and we always encourage people who have concerns for the welfare of others along our coastline to dial 999 and ask the Coastguard to check on their safety.”
“We are always happy to check on people and quickly stand down rather than have a casualty on our hands because no-one reported it. The walker in this case did the right thing.”