RNLI Lerwick lifeboat tows in stricken trawler
Lerwick Lifeboat last night went to the aid of a trawler drifting east of Shetland
The Coxswain assessed the situation and made the decision that undertaking a tow was necessary. After taking up the tow, the lifeboat made steady progress back to Lerwick Harbour at a speed of around six knots, arriving at 6.30am. The trawler was brought safely alongside Victoria Pier with the assistance of the harbour pilot vessel, The Knab.
Sea conditions were calm with very light winds.
Tommy Goudie, Deputy Second Coxswain said: “The trawler skipper did the right thing by contacting the Coastguard when he realised that his propeller was fouled and he had no propulsion. Our volunteer crew responded quickly to the request to launch in the early hours of morning. We were pleased to be able to help the vessel reach a safe harbour for repairs.”
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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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