Stranded fishing vessel recovered by Margate RNLI

Margate’s two RNLI lifeboats were called to the vessel on Saturday afternoon after it became stranded in Walpole Bay following engine failure. It remained high and dry on the falling tide, the occupants stating their intention to attempt refloating the vessel on the next high tide in the early hours of Sunday morning.

UK Coastguard was concerned for the safety of the occupants and with uncertainty about the condition of the boat’s machinery, the RNLI was tasked once again to provide assistance if required. Margate Coastguard’s Coast Rescue Team volunteers were also alerted to provide support.

Soon after midnight both the all-weather and inshore lifeboats were launched again and once on scene an RNLI crewman was put aboard the vessel, providing the sole occupant with a lifejacket.

At high tide the fishing vessel was pulled clear of the confines of the swimming pool by the inshore lifeboat and escorted by the all-weather lifeboat, was towed to the safety of Margate harbour. After washing the lifeboats down and preparing them for further service the volunteer crew returned to their homes and families around 5am.

Ian Lowe, Deputy Launching Authority, Margate RNLI said: “Thanks to the volunteer crew of both lifeboats and shore crew who gave up a large chunk of their Saturday day and night the casualty vessel was assisted to safety while preserving a local historic attraction that is our tidal pool at Walpole Bay.”

ENDS

RNLI Media contacts

• Peter Barker, RNLI Margate Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer 07974 064304 [email protected]

• Oliver Wrynne-Simpson, Regional Media Officer (South East), 0207 6207426, 07785 296252 [email protected]

• For enquiries outside normal business hours, contact the RNLI duty press officer on 01202 336789

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