Man Suffers Serious Injuries Tombstoning Near Mumbles
Grim Rescue at Notorious Tombstoning Spot
Mumbles lifeboat and cliff rescue teams rushed to the scene on Saturday afternoon after a man suffered multiple fractures jumping into water between Langland and Limeslade Bays—a hotspot for risky tombstoning.
Two RNLI lifeboats, the Mumbles Coastguard Cliff Rescue Team, a Coastguard helicopter, and Wales Air Ambulance launched to save the casualty. He was airlifted to hospital with life-changing injuries.
Coastguard Warns: Tombstoning is Deadly
“He nearly paid the ultimate price,” said Mumbles Coastguard Cliff Rescue Team in a social media post. “Yes, he jumped from the top. No, he didn’t know what was under the water. The tide was ebbing.”
“Endless warnings go unheeded. Please don’t rock jump,” they urged. The incident took place close to Langland Bay.
Lifeboat Deputy Coxswain James Bolter added, “We’re so grateful to the person who quickly called for help. This was a very serious incident. We hope the casualty recovers.”
Busy Bank Holiday Weekend for Lifeboats
The RNLI has been stretched this Bank Holiday as lockdown easing draws crowds to the coast.
“Anyone near the water must check tides and weather, carry a phone or means to call for help, and remember sea temperatures are still freezing,” Bolter warned.
Another Rescue as Kayaker Swept Out to Sea
On the same day, Horton and Port Eynon lifeboats saved a kayaker at Oxwich Bay who was swept out by the tide. Wearing a buoyancy aid, the man paddled with a friend and son, but got caught in a strong tide and was forced onto rocks at Oxwich Point.
His companions reached shore safely, but the lifeboat crew had to pull the stranded man to safety.
