Flamborough RNLI’s new lifeboat, Forever Yibba (B-959), successfully completed its first operational launch this afternoon (3 July, 2026) at 5.05pm after two paddle boarders became stranded between North Landing and Flamborough Lighthouse.
The volunteer crew was requested to launch by HM Coastguard at 5pm following reports that the pair were in difficulty. The lifeboat was launched within five minutes and made best speed to the scene, marking the first service call for the station’s new vessel.
On arrival, the crew found the paddle boarders had reached the shoreline but were trapped in a hazardous area, with heavy swell making a rescue by sea too dangerous.
The crew requested assistance from Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 912 while remaining on scene to monitor the situation. A Coastguard Rescue Team also stood by on the clifftop above the casualties.
The helicopter successfully winched both casualties to safety before the lifeboat returned to station at 6.40pm.
Lifeboat Operations Manager Captain David Freeman praised the performance of Forever Yibba on its first launch and commended the swift response of the volunteer crew. He also reminded anyone heading onto the water this summer to check conditions carefully, wear a lifejacket and carry a reliable means of calling for help.
