Workington RNLI responds after concerns at marina

Workington RNLI's inshore lifeboat the John F Mortimer was called out on Sunday at 3.46pm after a member of a public spotted a tent in Harrington Marina and was concerned for its occupants' safety.

The tent prompted a 999 call to emergency services. Whitehaven Coastguard Rescue Team and Cumbria police were also called out.

Due to falling tides, the John F Mortimer could not reach the location and was stood down. Whitehaven Coastguard Rescue Team confirmed the tent was empty.

A spokesperson for Workington RNLI says:

'This was a false alarm with good intent - we would encourage the public to always report any coastal emergencies on 999 to the Coastguard.'

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The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 142,700 lives.

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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.