Filey RNLI search in challenging conditions during multi-agency operation

Shortly before 6pm, UK Coastguard requested the launch of Filey’s all-weather Mersey Class lifeboat (ALB), Keep Fit Association, following a report that a vessel was in difficulty 11 miles south east of Filey Brigg.

Shortly afterwards, the ALB under the command of Coxswain/Mechanic Barry Robson, launched in to a full south easterly gale and very heavy seas to commence a search. Other crew were: Neil Cammish, Paul Wilson, Sam Cross, Ian Butler, Vanessa Thomas and Paul Taylor.

Along with Bridlington’s all-weather Mersey Class lifeboat and Coastguard helicopter Rescue 912, an area to the east and south of Flamborough Head was searched. Conditions were very difficult and the crew were being constantly washed off their feet by huge breaking seas which crashed over the lifeboat.

After three hours and having covered an extensive area, all Search and Rescue Units were stood down as nothing had been found. Currently there is no more information about the vessel.

Barry Robson, RNLI Coxswain / Mechanic said: ‘Conditions at Flamborough Head were very difficult last night. It was cold, very windy and the crew were faced with very large breaking seas. It is for scenarios like this that we continually train and I want to thank all of our crew here at Filey, both boat and shore crew, Bridlington ALB crews and Helicopter 912, for turning out in such poor conditions.’

Notes to editors

• Filey Lifeboat Station was founded in 1804. It currently operates both a Mersey-Class All-Weather Lifeboat and an Inshore Lifeboat. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to Filey Lifeboat Station Facebook page.

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