Yarmouth RNLI rescue dismasted yacht following Mayday call
Yarmouth’s Severn class all weather lifeboat, 'Eric and Susan Hiscock (Wanderer)', was tasked by HM Coastguard on Thursday 9 July 2020 at 3.21am to a Mayday call from a sailing vessel.
Yarmouth RNLI’s volunteer crew responded to the pager in the early hours of the morning and headed west out of the Solent to a 24ft yacht in distress approximately six miles south west of St Catherine’s Point. In the rough and challenging conditions of a Force 6 westerly wind, two RNLI crew members were put on board the dismasted boat to assess the situation.
The three persons on board the yacht were unharmed. Before establishing a tow line, the two RNLI crew made secure the broken mast and rigging in preparation for the journey back to Yarmouth in moderate to rough conditions.
On the approach into Yarmouth Harbour, the tow line was released and the casualty vessel made its way into the harbour using its own engine assisted by the RNLI.
Deputy Coxswain, Pete Lemonious said: ‘As part of planning a safe passage, always consider the timing and distance; taking into consideration the weather forecast and sea conditions.’
Yarmouth lifeboat returned to her berth and was ready for service at 7.55am.
Media contacts:
Teresa Fox, volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer, Yarmouth Lifeboat Station [email protected] 07976 731906
Paul Dunt, Regional Media Officer SE and London [email protected]
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