An urgent search operation is underway in Cornwall after a 75-year-old skipper disappeared when his boat was discovered wrecked on a beach, prompting serious concerns for his welfare.
Police Launch Public Appeal for Missing Man
Devon and Cornwall Police have issued an urgent public appeal following reports that David Fretwell has gone missing. The alarm was raised after his vessel, named Green Goddess, was found washed up in the Hayle area on Friday, March 6, 2026.
Extensive Search Efforts Mobilised
Upon discovery of the destroyed boat, emergency services swiftly mobilised a large-scale search operation. Three coastguard vessels, two RNLI lifeboats from St Ives, and an HM Coastguard helicopter were dispatched to Mexico Towans beach near the Beachside Holiday Park.
An HM Coastguard spokesperson confirmed: "A sailing vessel was reported to HM Coastguard at about 8.05am on Friday, March 6, to have broken up on the shoreline at Hayle beach, with no sign of any person on board."
The spokesperson added: "Coastguard Rescue Teams from St Ives, Portreath and Penzance were sent to check for anyone in distress. Devon and Cornwall Police were also informed. Searches did not locate any person in distress. HM Coastguard stood down its response at about 2.30pm, pending any new information."
Wreckage Scattered Across Shoreline
Local residents reported discovering extensive wreckage from the vessel scattered across the shoreline. The debris included:
- Fragments of the boat's hull
- Multiple lifejackets
- Tins of paint coatings
- Gas canisters
- Various personal items
- A seat positioned upright in the sand
Most of the wreckage was concentrated around the Mexico Towans section of the beach, indicating the vessel had suffered significant damage before washing ashore.
Skipper's Last Known Movements
Investigators believe David Fretwell had been journeying along the north Cornwall coast by boat in the days preceding his disappearance. It is thought he passed through Padstow and Newquay before reaching the St Ives area on Wednesday, March 4.
Description and Police Appeal
David Fretwell is described as a white male, of slim build, with short grey hair and standing approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall.
A police representative stated: "If you have seen David, or know of their whereabouts, please call police immediately on 999, quoting log number 247 06/03/26."
The police force emphasised their growing concern for the welfare of the 75-year-old skipper and urged anyone with information to come forward without delay.
The search continues as authorities piece together the circumstances surrounding the vessel's destruction and the skipper's disappearance along the Cornish coastline.
