Both RNLI Torbay lifeboats launch to assist grounded yacht off Paignton
Both the RNLI Torbay all-weather and inshore lifeboat crews were tasked at around 11.40am on Wednesday 30 May to reports of a sailing vessel which had run aground at Preston Sands, north of Paignton.
The two volunteer lifeboat crews were quickly on scene and discovered a 32’ yacht aground on sand, offshore from the Redcliffe Hotel in Paignton. There were 6 adults aboard, and 4 people were taken off the vessel by the inshore lifeboat crew.
The 4 casualties (who were unharmed) were transferred to the all-weather lifeboat and taken to Torquay harbour to go safely ashore, leaving two crew aboard the yacht to await high tide later in the day to re-float the vessel (which was undamaged).
Weather conditions were very murky due to the recent thundery downpours and low cloud, and – although the sea state was calm – visibility was quite poor.
Both lifeboat crews were then able to return to station, refuel the lifeboats and prepare for any further taskings.
Notes to editors
Torbay Lifeboat Station Key Facts:
- Torbay lifeboat station has been operating since 1866. To learn more about the station go to: https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/torbay-lifeboat-station
- Coxswain of Torbay Lifeboat is Mark Criddle
- Further information on Torbay Lifeboat Station’s local activities can be found at: http://www.torbaylifeboat.co.uk/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rnlitorbay
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/RNLITorbay
RNLI media contacts
Victoria Bowen, RNLI Torbay Lifeboat Press Officer
07794 043 428 or [email protected]
Emma Haines, RNLI Regional Media Officer:
01752 854450 or [email protected]
or RNLI Public Relations at Poole HQ on 01202 336 789 (24 hours)
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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