RNLI Lifeboat B-842 Hello Herbie on Exercise with Coastguard Helicopter 104

Rye Harbour RNLI Lifeboat B-842 'Hello Herbie' launched on training exercise with Coastguard Helicopter 104 at 10am on Sunday 13 January 2013. The training took place in Rye Bay, where both Lifeboat and Flight crews were put through their paces.

The Crew at Rye Harbour RNLI Lifeboat Station were put through their paces along with the crew of Coastguard Helicopter 104 today during the annual training exercise held in Rye Bay.

For some of the crew, this was the first time they have trained with a helicopter, which is a unique experience. In addition to the normal factors that have to be taken into account by the helmsman, the helicopter presents additional ones - such as downdraft and noise.

Richard Tollett, RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager at Rye Harbour Lifeboat Station said 'Today's exercise gave the crew an opportunity to practise skills that are only used in exceptional circumstances, where lifeboats and helicopters carry out joint rescues.'

Ends

Notes to editors

Rye Harbour lifeboat station has been operating since 1966. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to www.rnli.org.uk/ryeharbour

RNLI media contacts

Steve Tollett, RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer at Rye Harbour 01797 223631 / news@ryeharbourlifeboat.co.uk

Tim Ash, RNLI Public Relations Manager (London/East/South East)
0207 6207426 / 07785 296252 / tim_ash@rnli.org.uk

Philly Byrde, RNLI Press Officer (London/East/South East)
0207 6207425 / 07786 668825 / philly_byrde@rnli.org.uk

For enquiries outside normal business hours, contact the RNLI duty press officer on 01202 336789