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Flint RNLI called out to an upturned boat

Lifeboats News Release

Flint RNLI lifeboat was tasked by UK Coastguard on Friday 22 January after a report of an upturned boat, thought to be unmanned, adrift by Hawarden Railway Bridge.

RNLI/Aby Norwood

The lifeboat proceeded by road to Connah’s Quay for launch, shortly after the volunteer lifeboat crew located the vessel which was an upturned boat attached to a pontoon that had become detached and drifted over the weir at Chester. The Lifeboat took the pontoon and vessel under tow and made secure at Connah’s Quay Dock. The owner has been identified and is arranging recovery.

Flint Lifeboat Helm Chris Dobson said:

'Due to the amount of rain water in, we are experiencing a lot debris being taken by the strong, fast flow of the river. If you ever see anyone or any vessel in trouble in the water, please do not hesitate to call 999 and ask for the coastguard.'

Notes to editors 

  • Flint RNLI lifeboat station was established in 1966. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to www.rnli.org.uk/flint
  • Since 1966 Flint Lifeboat has launched over 700 times, saved 103 lives, and rescued a further 148 people.  
  • Flint lifeboat and its volunteers responded to 14 calls in 2018 
  • Potential lifeboat crew and fundraising volunteers, contact Alan Forrester on 07785593247 


RNLI media contacts

For more information contact Carly McCarthy and Aby Norwood Flint RNLI volunteer press officers, on [email protected] or [email protected]. Alternatively contact Eleri Roberts, RNLI Regional Media Officer on 07771 941390 or RNLI Press Office 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 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.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, X, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

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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