Christmas (temporarily) on hold for Penarth Lifeboat Volunteers.
Shortly after 4.30pm, Monday 24th December, both of Penarth's lifeboats were launched on service.
At the request of Milford Haven Coastguards Penarth RNLI launched both lifeboats to assist a small fishing vessel which had a foul prop and was in danger of taking on water. The vessel was located a short distance from Penarth Pier, and the volunteers were able to locate the vessel quickly. Another fishing boat was standing off, ready to provide assistance to the vessel if required. The lifeboat crew were grateful for that vessel's assistance.
An alongside tow was set up and the vessel, which had two people on board, was towed to safety to be met by HM Coastguard officers from Penarth. The vessel had snagged on a long line, which had cause some damage to the vessel's prop shaft, fortunately both people on board were uninjured.
On returning to the station, both lifeboats were prepared for the next shout, and many of Penarth's volunteer crew members returned to their homes to continue festive preparations once again. This call shows the dedication of our crew members who will drop everything when a distress call comes in. Now its back to wrapping, trying to get children to sleep, and maybe, just maybe, having a little glass of sherry.
For further information please contact Andy Berry, Lifeboat Press Officer at Penarth Lifeboat Station on 07951 051128
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.