Swanage inshore lifeboat launches into strong NE winds and heads for Old Harry

The Inshore Lifeboat (ILB) launched into conditions close to the limits of its safe operation with an experienced crew on board. The all-weather lifeboat (ALB) was made ready for immediate launching, but remained on the slipway as launching the Shannon class lifeboat would have resulted in having to leave the boat on its mooring, as re-housing in the prevailing conditions would have been impossible without risking damage to either the boat or its crew.

Meanwhile, the ILB made progress to Old Harry and was guided to the casualty dog with help from Swanage coastguards.

After recovering the dog the ILB returned to the boathouse, where the shore crew had prepared for a bow-first rough weather recovery. After a couple of trial runs the D-class ILB was winched from the breaking sea and washed down ready for further service. The ALB, meantime, was recovered to the boathouse without needing to get wet.

RNLI Media Contacts

Becky Mack, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for RNLI South East, [email protected]

Stella Sims, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for London and South East England, 07483 316675, [email protected]

Sam Haddad, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for London and South East England, 01202 137713, [email protected]

Julie Rainey, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for London and South East England, 07827 358256, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]

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