Ramsgate RNLI have a late night as they launch to a solo sailor.

The thirty one foot yacht was fourteen miles North East off from Ramsgate and had total electrical failure, meaning the solo sailor was unable to start the engine nor sail the boat on his own in the dark. Thankfully after the recent storms the weather was calm.

The relief all weather lifeboat Windsor Runner (Civil Service No. 42) was launched at 23.03 as Ramsgate’s own lifeboat Esme Anderson is currently undergoing repairs.

On arrival at the scene the crew passed a line to the sailor and once it was secured, towed the casualty into Ramsgate Harbour for safety and repairs to be carried out, arriving back at 2.40 in the morning.

Coxswain Ian Cannon said, ‘ All night rescues carry an extra element of difficulty but thanks to the continued support of the public, we have the training and equipment needed.’

Karen Cox Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer Tel. 07779848431 Email [email protected].

Paul Dunt RNLI Regional Media Officer London and South East

Tel. 07785 296252 Email [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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