Ramsgate in river rescue

Due to tidal constraints the ILB was unable to even get into the river entrance. Consequently, the decision was made to take the all weather lifeboat's 'daughter' small inflatable boat (XP28) by road to the river bank where it could be launched to assist the casualty.

On arrival the XP boat was set up, and with two crew made it's way to the casualty vessel. Once alongside, one of the two people on board the casualty was taken ashore, the remaining person choosing to stay aboard. The XP boat crew then assisted with putting out the casualty's anchor, in order that the vessel remained safe when the tide started to rise and it was able to continue on its way. The XP boat was then made ready for returning by van to the Lifeboat Station.

Ramsgate RNLI is often called out to incidents occurring in the River Stour, along the lower reaches of which are a number of moorings and marinas. The incidents are usually dealt with by the station's Atlantic 85 ILB but at times of very low water due to Spring tides, such as Saturday, an alternative method has to be employed. As a result the Ramsgate crew members are trained in transporting the XP boat to and using it on the river.

RNLI media contacts

• John Ray, Volunteer RNLI Press Officer, Ramsgate on 07759 480825 john.g.ray@talk21.com
• Tim Ash, RNLI Public Relations Manager (London/East/South East) on 0207 6207426, 07785 296252 tim_ash@rnli.org.uk
• Paul Dunt, RNLI Press Officer (London/East/South East) on 0207 6207416, 07786 668825 paul_dunt@rnli.org.uk
• For enquiries outside normal business hours, contact the RNLI duty press officer on 01202 336789

Key facts about the RNLI

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution is the charity that saves lives at sea. Our volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service in the United Kingdom and Ireland from 238 lifeboat stations, including four along the River Thames and inland lifeboat stations at Loch Ness, Lough Derg, Enniskillen, Carrybridge and Lough Ree. Additionally the RNLI has more than 1,000 lifeguards on over 240 beaches around the UK and operates a specialist flood rescue team, which can respond anywhere across the UK and Ireland when inland flooding puts lives at risk.

The RNLI relies on public donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. As a charity it is separate from, but works alongside, government-controlled and funded coastguard services. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 our lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved at least 140,000 lives. Volunteers make up 95% of the charity, including 4,600 volunteer lifeboat crew members and 3,000 volunteer shore crew. Additionally, tens of thousands of other dedicated volunteers raise funds and awareness, give safety advice, and help in our museums, shops and offices.

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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 or by email.

 

The RNLI is a charity registered in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SC037736). Charity number 20003326 in the Republic of Ireland