Fewer people were rescued in 2005 according to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency. The search and rescue figures released this morning show that 4,790 people were rescued last year, compared to 5,276 in 2004, despite the fact that calls to the Coastguard had increased by over 2,000.

Chief Coastguard, Peter Dymond said the findings are positive as they suggest an increase in the early reporting of incidents, meaning people are assisted sooner before they get into serious trouble. ‘This is very good news given our strenuous efforts to raise awareness of the Coastguard,’ he said. ‘I would also like to think the TV series Seaside Rescue is playing its part in promoting safety.’

Of the fatalities recorded by the Coastguard in 2005, 100 were maritime accidents. Falmouth recorded the highest number of incidents, Liverpool the highest number of hoaxes, Aberdeen the highest number of persons assisted and Clyde the most lives lost.