A Penarth RNLI lifeboat braved choppy seas to support a Coastguard Rescue Helicopter yesterday as it airlifted a yachter to hospital.

The service was called at just after 11:30 AM (21 September) to the vessel, which had two people on-board as it drifted towards the rocks off Lavernock Point.

A paramedic assessed the concerned yachter at the scene before being promptly lifting the individual to hospital. A dramatic video captures the moment the paramedic is winched down to the lifeboat.

A statement on the Penarth RNLI Facebook page read: "Penarth's RNLI volunteers were called shortly after 11.30am on Sunday, September 20.

"The larger Atlantic lifeboat, with a crew of four, was asked to support HM Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 187, which is based at St Athan.

"A 32-foot yacht, with two people on board, reported that they were in need of medical assistance. The yacht was near Lavernock Point and the lifeboat was able to transfer a crew member on to the yacht on arrival.

"The helicopter paramedic was winched down to the lifeboat and then transferred to the yacht. The casualty was assessed and then winched into the helicopter and transported to hospital with landing assistance provided by the coastguard rescue team.

"The Penarth crew then assisted the remaining sailor on board the yacht, which was struggling to make progress against the outgoing spring high tide and also suffering engine difficulties.

"The yacht was placed under tow and taken to Barry Dock where it was placed on a secure mooring.

"A great example of multiagency working to ensure that the casualty received the most timely treatment – all the crew wish the casualty a speedy recovery."

Footage taken from a camera placed on the rescue boat can be watched here:

RNLI Penarth Facebook Page