COASTGUARD NEWS - WESTERN REGION             

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Western 070/01
May 25, 2001

BOATING TRAGEDY IN CARDIFF BAY

Swansea Coastguard received a 999 call from a member of the public at 11:30 a.m. on 25 May 2001 informing them that two people were in the water within Cardiff Bay.

Subsequently it transpired that a father and his son from the Bridgend area, had been rowing out in a six-foot boat to a larger craft when their boat overturned in the Bay and despite the warm and calm conditions the craft had overturned spilling the occupants into the water.

The emergency services were all informed and the Coastguard Rescue Team from Penarth was sent to the area. The Penarth lifeboat was requested to launch and a local dive boat `Heather D' immediately on scene was able to assist. A further vessel 'Bay Mermaid' from the Cardiff Barrage also went to assist.

Unfortunately the father in his 50's died.  He is believed to have drowned.  His 16-year-old son was taken to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff.

James Instance, Swansea Coastguard Watch Manager said, "We are all very saddened by this incident. Despite very little wind with fine conditions and good visibility this journey had a tragic outcome. It must be remembered that any sea journey contains risks and every effort must be made to lessen those risk - particularly by wearing lifejackets, which unfortunately were not being worn at the time of this incident."