World kite surfing champion is rescued by lifeboat crews in Fleetwood

Hannah Whiteley, 28, was rescued off Rossall Point after she found herself in difficulty whilst training yesterday afternoon (Saturday, September 19)

Volunteers with Fleetwood's RNLI team were mobilised and the D-719 lifeboat was launched, reaching the extreme sports star within minutes.

But her rescuers were stunned when they helped the 28-year-old into the boat and realised who they had just saved.

"Imagine the volunteer crew's surprise to find the kite surfer was none other than World Kitesurfing Champion of 2017, Hannah Whiteley!," said an RNLI spokesman.

Ms Whiteley, who also works as a model, is a huge star in the world of extreme sports and has more than 56,000 followers on Instagram.

A world renowned professional kitesurfer, she was crowned World Champion in 2017 and placed 2nd in the world rankings in 2018.

Hannah is also a three-time British champion and the youngest ever woman to win the British Amateur Ladies title at the age of 15.

The Fleetwood RNLI team said Ms Whiteley has made a generous donation as a token of gratitude for her dramatic rescue.

"Many thanks for your donation, Hannah and we hoped you enjoyed the relaxing journey back to port," added the RNLI team.