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Valentia RNLI assist a pleasure boat with four people onboard

Lifeboats News Release

Valentia RNLI volunteers launched their all-weather lifeboat yesterday (Sunday 11 April) to assist a 32ft pleasure boat with four people onboard, which required assistance.

Valentia RNLI towing the pleasure boat to Valentia Marina

RNLI/Aidan Riordan Crew

Valentia RNLI assist a pleasure boat with four onboard

At 4.23pm the Valentia Coast Guard requested Valentia RNLI's volunteer crew to launch the all-weather lifeboat and go to the aid of four people onboard a 32ft pleasure boat, with a fouled propeller close to the rocks at the entrance of Cuas Crom Harbour. Weather conditions at the time were described as fine with good visibility, a five foot swell and a Force 4-5 north to north westerly wind.

On scene, the lifeboat came alongside the vessel so the crew could assess the situation and then moved the vessel to a safer location. The crew ensured all occupants onboard were safe and assisted them in trying to remove the fishing gear from the propeller.

After initially trying to defoul the vessel, it was decided the best option was to set up a tow. The vessel was then towed safely back to Valentia Marina.

Speaking following the call out, Colum O’Connell, Valentia RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager said: 'The occupants onboard the vessel made the right decision in calling for help when they did, as the situation could have ended up a lot different. We would encourage everyone to stay safe and for those who find themselves in need of help to call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.'

Ends

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.

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