Busy times for the Alderney RNLI Lifeboat
Alderney’s RNLI all weather lifeboat, Roy Barker I had a busy month in July with a total of six 'shouts’, four of which were within one week. August is also showing signs of being busy with two ‘shouts’ in the first week from yachts requiring assistance.
The ideal sailing conditions and warm weather so far this year has resulted in a significant number of visitors to the Island by sea, which in turn has seen an increase in vessels requiring assistance. The majority of rescues were due to engine trouble and light winds, with vessels requiring a tow to Braye Harbour, Alderney.
So far this month, the first 'shout' was received on the 2nd and the other on the 7th. The latter, a 31ft yacht experienced mechanical failure in the busy shipping lanes 13 miles northeast of Alderney. With two adults, two children and the family dog onboard, the yacht was towed back to Braye Harbour.
The skipper of the yacht said “Without hesitating the Alderney Lifeboat came to our assistance following major mechanical failure. Always professional and very friendly, we were made to feel that we had made the right decision by letting them know before the situation had a chance to escalate. Thank you so much from the crew of Toroa”.
The Alderney RNLI Coxswain, Declan Gaudion said, “July certainly proved to be a busy month with four ‘shouts’ in as many days. It's great to have such a dedicated team of volunteers who are prepared to drop everything, to assist those in need.”
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives.
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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries
Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.