Whitby RNLI launch inshore lifeboat after report of struggling vessel.
The call came in that vessel was potentially capsized at around 2pm this afternoon (Monday 25 May.)
A small pleasure boat was found north of Sandsend, and upon speaking to the people on board it was established that they were not in any difficulty but had been drifting while sea-fishing.
The local Coastguard team managed to locate the first informants who had noticed the boat from the cliffs and upon seeing it drifting were concerned it had capsized. Satisfied that this was a call with good-intent and no boats were in danger the RNLI crew were stood down and returned to the lifeboat station.
Whitby RNLI Coxswain Howard Fields said: 'The caller did the right thing by alerting the coastguard, it is always better to check out a situation rather than assuming everything is ok. This is a great example of two agencies working together to quickly respond and establish the facts for the safest possible outcome, so thank you to the local Coastguard team.'
If you spot someone in difficulty along the coast dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
For more information contact Lifeboat Press Officer Ceri Oakes on 07813359428 or at [email protected]
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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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries
Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.