New launch comes to the rescue

CAMPELLO police launch proved its worth almost immediately by assisting in the rescue of three swimmers.

The launch patrols the 23 kilometres of Campello coastline every morning on weekdays and all day at weekends.

On a recent patrol, Local Police officers heard cries for help as an elderly man and his two nieces struggled against the current in the area between the buoys and the swimming zone off Muchavista beach.

Although in no danger of drowning they were having to battle the strong undertow and had to be helped into the boat.

None needed medical assistance once on dry land, although they explained later that they were very frightened by the unexpectedly strong current.