TWO men are “extremely lucky” to be on dry land after their rigid inflatable boat capsized in surf, throwing them both into the sea.

The pair – who were not wearing life jackets – were flung into water near South Gare, at Redcar, on Friday, and had to swim to the shore for safety.

Both RNLI lifeboats from Redcar and a coastguard rescue team were scrambled shortly after 11.30am after the men were seen waving for help.

When the lifeboat arrived, the crews found the men were in the care of the coastguard team and were safe and well.

Dave Cocks, lifeboat operations manager at Redcar RNLI, said: “I think the two men realise they were extremely lucky. Neither were wearing lifejackets. On another day they wouldn’t have been able to get back to shore.

“The effects of cold water shock could easily have taken hold and we could now be talking about fatalities.”

The boat was eventually washed onto rocks near the lighthouse at the mouth of the River Tees. The rising tide allowed the smaller inshore RNLI lifeboat to tow the craft off the rocks.

It was then towed into the Tees where the RNLI crews were able to get it onto its trailer.

Mr Cocks added: “In a strange twist of fate the owner of the boat has asked for a visit by our sea safety adviser who will be giving our Advice Onboard check.

“This is our free, independent advice which gives boat owners practical suggestions about how to improve the safety of the boat and its equipment.”

To arrange a visit, go to rnli.org/safety