Police and coastguard crews are intensifying their search for a London pensioner after the wreckage of his boat was discovered washed up on a beach in Cornwall, sparking grave concerns for his safety. Devon and Cornwall Police have issued an urgent appeal for public assistance in locating 75-year-old David Fretwell, who has been missing since Friday, March 6.
Boat Found Smashed on Hayle Beach
The vessel, named Green Goddess, was found in a severely damaged state on Mexico Towans beach near St Ives. Upon discovery, a large-scale emergency response was immediately launched, involving three coastguard vessels, two RNLI lifeboats from St Ives, and a coastguard helicopter. The boat had broken apart, with its contents scattered across the shoreline.
Debris Scattered Across the Sand
Local residents reported finding various items from the boat strewn around the beach area, close to the Beachside Holiday Park. These included parts of the hull, lifejackets, tins of paint coatings, gas canisters, personal belongings, and even a seat standing upright in the sand. The debris was concentrated in the Mexico Towans section, indicating the force of the impact.
HM Coastguard confirmed that they were alerted at approximately 8:05 am on Friday, March 6, about a sailing vessel that had broken up on the shoreline at Hayle beach with no one on board. Coastguard Rescue Teams from St Ives, Portreath, and Penzance were dispatched to search for any individuals in distress. Despite thorough efforts, no person was located, and the coastguard stood down its response around 2:30 pm, pending further information.
David Fretwell's Last Known Movements
David Fretwell is believed to have been traveling along the north Cornwall coast by boat, passing through Padstow and Newquay before arriving in the St Ives area on Wednesday, March 4. He is described as a white male, of slim build, with short grey hair and approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall.
A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating: "If you have seen David, or know of their whereabouts, please call police immediately on 999, quoting log number 247 06/03/26." The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings or information that could aid in the search.
The incident has highlighted the dangers of maritime travel and the critical role of emergency services in coastal regions. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, with hopes of finding David Fretwell safe and sound.
