RNLI Barry Dock volunteers have responded to three incidents in just 24 hours, with two of the callouts involving people stranded on Sully Island.
The first incident was an unusual one for the crew. Two boys attempted to swim across to Sully Island while the tide was coming in, managing to reach the island but becoming exhausted after battling the fast-flowing channel. Realising they couldn’t safely make the return swim, they called for help.
The RNLI said it was the first time they had been tasked to rescue people who had deliberately swum to the island during an incoming tide. Crews are more commonly called to assist those cut off by the tide on the causeway.
The second shout was a more familiar scenario: two people stranded on Sully Island after misjudging the tide. They did not attempt to cross the submerged causeway and contacted the Coastguard immediately.
Later, the crew were tasked to Porthkerry Park following reports of a person in the water. A shoreline search was carried out and the individual was found safe and well on land.
Between callouts, the Barry Dock team also made an unexpected stop in Penarth to meet colleagues from Penarth RNLI.
With another busy summer weekend ahead, the charity is urging anyone visiting Sully Island to check tide times and avoid crossing the causeway during the three hours either side of high tide. Even shallow water can hide powerful currents capable of sweeping people off their feet.
If you become cut off, RNLI guidance is clear: stay where you are and call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

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