RNLI Penlee were delighted to meet Lewis and Lynne Clark again after they returned to meet the crew who saved their dog ‘Mac’ in September 2022.

The RNLI volunteer crew of our Atlantic 85 Inshore lifeboat Mollie and Ivor Dent sped to the rescue of Mac the collie dog who had fallen into the sea between Mousehole and Lamorna.

Will Treneer was at the helm, with crew members Max Rowe and Jason Ward onboard. On arrival they could see that Mac was in a very distressed state, barking, whining and swimming in and out of the cave.

Max entered the water, swam to Mac, and with the help of Jason Ward carefully lifted him onboard the lifeboat.

Mac underwent two operations for a number of serious injuries and remained at Penmellyn Vets St Columb for a number of weeks until he was well enough to travel back home.

Mac continued to make a good recovery and despite a bit of a limp Mac was soon back at his favourite pastime - carrying sticks.

Lewis said: “Please pass on our heartfelt thanks to all concerned for saving Mac's life, especially the crew who rescued him, and for the care and compassion shown to us.

“Without their bravery we wouldn't have Mac, we'll always be thankful that there are people like yourselves in times of need. The photo of Max with Mac epitomises the bravery and compassion of the RNLI volunteers.”

In a dreadful turn of circumstances Mac had another battle to fight, one that he would not win. Last July Lewis and Lynne informed the crew that Mac had passed away having lost his fight with cancer.

On Monday, June 16, Lewis and Lynne returned to Penlee to meet the crew, where Max and Will were there to welcome them. They were able to talk about what had happened, the highs and lows, while being shown around the lifeboats Mollie, Ivor Dent and Ivan Ellen.

Lewis and Lynne are now foster parents looking after dogs that need care before they are re-homed.