Berwick-upon-Tweed RNLI lifeboat crew help untangle yacht
On May 28 at 5.17pm, HM Coastguard requested the launch of the Atlantic 85 lifeboat to assist an 18ft yacht in difficulty, with one person on board, in challenging sea conditions.
Helm Michael Percy with crew Christi Avril, Sean Dixon and Shona Richardson made best speed to one mile east of Emmanuel Head Holy Island.
Sea state was a strong south easterly wind, force 5/6 with a moderate to rough swell and ebbing tide.
Communication was established with the skipper of the yacht and once the lifeboat was alongside the crew made sure all was well with the skipper, establishing that the vessel had unfortunately become entangled in the fishing tackle and needed freeing.
Helm Michael Percy said: ‘Due to the challenging sea conditions it was proving to be too difficult and dangerous for us to cut him free, however the skipper did mange to cut the line on a final attempt himself with us alongside.
'Once free a risk assessment was taken that there was no immediate risk to himself, the vessel or navigation, and he was able to make way himself. We agreed to escort him back towards the safety of Holy Island harbour, as this was the nearest and safest haven, agreeing should anything further develop we would be available to assist immediately and ready to establish a tow if required.
'Once he was safely in the harbour. We then made our way back to our lifeboat station, where the boat was prepared ready for service.’
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Richard Grange, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for North East and East England, 07483 112015, [email protected]
RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]
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