Exmouth RNLI volunteers rescue two dinghy sailors in the river Exe
Inshore lifeboat George Bearman II launched at 6.04pm on 27 October to two solo dinghy sailors in difficulty in the river Exe, as light was fading rapidly.
In force 4 conditions with wind over tide & in bitterly cold squalls, Crew volunteers transferred both men, one by one to Starcross Yacht Club.
The first casualty had called the Coastguard after his 12’ dinghy had gone aground on Bull Hill, a shingle bank in the river Exe. Crew volunteers returned to second casualty who had tried to make his way in fading light, but had taken on water. Both casualties were cold and tired due to the conditions. Safety advice was given.
Helm, Scott Ranft commented:
‘The first casualty did the right thing and called the Coastguard using his mobile phone, although a VHF radio would have been a more reliable method of communication. The second casualty had taken on a substantial amount of water in his dinghy, he was struggling and could have found himself in a more serious situation in the dark if we hadn’t assisted him at the time.’
George Bearman II was ready for service again at 7.10pm.
Notes to Editors
Photos: (Credit: Exmouth RNLI)
PR281018 Recovery of George Bearman II in the dark
For more information please contact Emma Tarling on 07837 810082 or email [email protected]. Alternatively, please contact Emma Haines, Regional Media Officer on 07786 668847 or email [email protected].
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