‘Waterspout’ tornado capsizes sea cadet kayaks at sailing event in Olton

It has been reported that a ‘waterspout’ tornado appeared during a sailing event at Olton Mere this afternoon (14th May) capsizing kayaks which resulted in local sea cadets being thrown out of their boats.

Sue, a sea cadet’s mum and member of Olton Mere Sailing Club, said: “I was at the Shirley Sea Cadets 60th Rowathon and also the RYA ‘push the boat out event’, a very successful day with lots of people having a great time.

“At approx 15:40, a twister or waterspout appeared from nowhere and landed on the water.

“It capsized the sea cadets into the water, one child was lifted about 4 feet up out the water and dropped down.

“All the children were thrown out of the kayaks!

“They were rescued from the water within seconds by both sea cadet and sailing club safety cover boats.

“The children are all fine.

“It’s called a mini twister created by the wind spinning round. Never happened before to anyone’s knowledge – some called it a waterspout.”

There were reportedly no injuries.

Mr Palmer, added: “I was in the cadets safety boat and honestly it was horrific to see, watching cadets being lifted and span around!

“Our team and the sailing club acted fast and everyone was rescued and bought to safety.

“The cadets themselves acted spectacularly using the training that they have gained before.”