Port Isaac: Lifeboatman's Bravery Recognised

An RNLI helmsman who helped rescue a drowning man off a Cornish beach has been recognised for his bravery

Damien Bolton from Port Isaac and crewmen Nicola Bradbury and Matt Main went to the rescue of anglers Peter and Paul Sleeman after they'd been washed from rocks at Tregardock beach last April.

Son Paul, who's 27, was trying to hold on to his 60-year old father Peter, in huge waves just off the rocky coastline.

Damien had to steer the lifeboat close to the rocks, avoiding the rope from a lifebuoy.  

At one point the crashing waves  made the engine fail. 

Eventually Paul was rescued, barely alive. Sadly Peter died, but his body was recovered.

Damien gives a heart-felt description of the rescue  CLICK HERE

Damien was presented with the Emile Robin Award at the Shipwrecked Mariners' Society Skills and Gallantry Awards.