VIDEO: Fire Service release their video of Saturday's rescue

Monday 22 August 2016

Footage shot by Jersey's Fire and Rescue Service shows just how rough conditions were when they launched on Saturday night to search for a swimmer who was reported in difficulties off the Island's south-east coast.

As well as the high tides and strong winds that the crews had to battle it was also extremely dark.

Jonathan Lee, RNLI press officer said: "There was a force seven 'near gale' during the rescue, with wind speeds of up to 40mph."

Jersey's Harbour Master, Captain Phillip Buckley has praised the team for its work: "I would like to highlight the courage and professionalism of all those involved in her rescue [Joy Godfray]  in the appalling conditions on our south coast on Saturday night.  This event is an all too tragic reminder of the perils of the seas around our coastline.  Jersey’s beautiful beaches mask a range of lurking hazards generated by one of the highest tidal ranges in Europe, which are made more dangerous in poor weather.  I urge everyone taking to the water for whatever reason to take the hazards and warnings seriously so that we avoid any further unnecessary loss of life.”