Milford Haven Coastguard received word on 10 December 2000 at just before 12:00 p.m. that an incident had occurred as an RNLI Inshore Lifeboat returned towards its boathouse when it became caught between two waves in disturbed water on the Aberdovey Bar in West Wales.

The lifeboat, which had been on exercise in the area, came to a standstill in the water and its helmsman was thrown overboard, injuring his back in the process. Although the lifeboat came along side the helmsman in an attempt to recover him from the water, the casualty stated that owing to his back injury it would be in his best interest to await helicopter recovery.

Milford Haven Coastguard had immediately requested the assistance of the RAF Rescue Helicopter from Valley, in Anglesey upon hearing of the incident, which was on route to the scene, while the RNLI lifeboat maintained visual contact with the casualty, occasionally loosing sight of him in the rough waves.

During this time the RNLI Inshore Lifeboat from Borth, which had also been dispatched, arrived on scene and decided to recover the helmsman from the water as the RAF helicopter was still some 20 minutes away and there was growing concern for the man's safety.

After a successful transfer, the helmsman was taken to Aberdovey where he was met by the RAF helicopter and airlifted to Bronglais Hospital, in Aberystwyth.

Nigel Porter, Watch Manager at Milford Haven Coastguard said, "The weather on scene was southerly force 7 with waves of up to 3 metres high. This was a successful rescue for all involved."