Clacton-on-Sea aid broken down boat
Lifeboat launches to a 21 foot craft which has suffered engine failure
At approximately 11.42 on the morning on April 2nd at the request of Dover Coastguard, Clacton's Atlantic 85 'David Porter MPS' with 4 crew members aboard was launched on to a calm sea with a gentle North Westerly breeze blowing, to the aid of a 21ft pleasure craft which had suffered engine failure.
The Lifeboat quickly reached the position relayed by the Coastguard and found the pleasure boat 'Rascal' with 2 people on board, on passage from Suffolk to Kent. With the consent of the occupants a member of the lifeboat crew went aboard to help raise the anchor and set up a tow.
The Lifeboat then made for Brightlingsea with 'Rascal' in tow and on nearing the Harbour Master was contacted and made aware of the situation, who prepared a space on the 'Hammerhead' for 'Rascal' 'Rascal' and her crew were berthed and left in the safe hands of the harbour master in order to make further enquiries with regards to having the engine problem fixed. The Lifeboat was then stood down by Dover Coastguard and returned to station, where it was refuelled and made ready for service at 14.20.
It was noted that the 2 persons on board 'Rascal' were wearing lifejackets, well prepared and equipped for this passage, which goes to show it could happen to anyone anytime. By being prepared they were able to stay calm, call for help and give an accurate position, which allowed the lifeboat to locate them quickly and easily.
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