Littlehampton RNLI called out to assist vessel with engine difficulties

HM Coastguard tasked the RNLI at 2.52pm to launch their B Class lifeboat Renee Sherman after they had received a mobile phone call from a small leisure craft suffering engine problems which was consequently unable to make headway.

Although the craft had a working VHF radio it was not turned on, but the RNLI volunteer crew quickly located the casualty vessel approximately half a mile east of the harbour entrance some 500 yards offshore from Rustington. The lifeboat crew promptly determined to put the casualty vessel and its two adult occupants on tow, returning them to their moorings in Littlehampton harbour within the hour.

Billy Johnson, Deputy Launching Authority at Littlehampton Lifeboat station, said

'Today there were clear blue skies, calm waters and a light onshore wind. The RNLI was called out not due to poor weather, but because of technical issues with an engine. If you are going to sea, particularly if it is for the first time in some months, it is vital to check carefully that your vessel is sea worthy. This includes the hull, steerage, battery, engine, radio and safety equipment. Please also remind yourself of radio procedures if you have not been afloat for a while.'

ENDS

RNLI media contacts

Anthony Fogg, Deputy Lifeboat Press Officer, Littlehampton RNLI 07823 509032 [email protected]

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

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 over 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 142,700 lives.

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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