Both Hartlepool RNLI lifeboats launched to assist 52 foot cruiser

The lifeboats were alongside the casualty vessel at 2.30pm where a tow line was attached and the vessel safely towed to a berth within the marina where members of the Hartlepool Coastguard Rescue Team were waiting to assist. Both boats then returned to the Ferry Road lifeboat station and were refuelled and made ready for service by 3.45pm.

Hartlepool RNLI Deputy Launch Authority Steve Pounder said 'Due to the casualty vessel having a mechanical problem and the windy weather conditions we decided to use the inshore lifeboat to assist the all weather lifeboat with manoeuvring the boat through the lock and into the marina.'

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.