Ice Cream Van Swept Out to Sea in Dramatic Incident at Cornwall Beach

In a dramatic episode at Harlyn Bay near Padstow, an ice cream van was washed out to sea by an incoming tide. Videos captured by onlookers and shared on social media showcased the vehicle being tossed around amidst powerful waves. Witness footage also depicted beachgoers making valiant attempts at rescuing the Kelly Whip ice cream van from the water, SSP reported.

The incident, which occurred over the weekend, fortunately resulted in no injuries. According to Richard Higman, who filmed the event, the van had been driving along the beach, serving ice cream to beach patrons. However, as the tide surged, it overwhelmed the van after the driver had reportedly off-loaded the ice cream.

Upon seeing the van in distress, a group of individuals on the beach attempted to salvage it using a rope but unfortunately made no progress. It was only when the tide receded that a farmer arrived with their tractor and managed to tow the van back up the beach using a rope.

Padstow Coastguard swiftly responded to the incident, dispatching crew members and RNLI lifeguards before 5 pm that Sunday to ensure the safety of those involved. Fortunately, the driver was safe and sound, having exited the vehicle before the situation worsened.

The owner of the ice cream van arranged for a recovery vehicle, which successfully retrieved the stranded van from the water when the tide receded sufficiently, at approximately 9:45 pm. Once the van was securely located, the Coastguard rescue officers concluded their operation, leaving it in a safe position.

Through the combined efforts of onlookers, emergency services, and a helpful farmer, this perilous situation ended without any harm and with the resilient ice cream van having been safely recovered.