
RNLI Clacton crew assist 32ft motor cruiser
Clacton-on-Sea RNLI station launched their Atlantic 85 Class ILB (inshore lifeboat) ‘David Porter MPS’ at 11.15 on Monday 31 January to reports of 32ft motor cruiser dragging its anchor around the entrance to Alresford creek, in response to a direct request from their flank station in West Mersea.
Although West Mersea RNLI initially received the call out, they requested the assistance of the Clacton crew to allow West Mersea to attend an additional request for help at another location.
The volunteer crew quickly launched into clear but overcast weather conditions to the last reported location near Alresford creek, and when the crew arrived on scene they located the vessel, drew alongside to find one occupant with their pet dog aboard.
They assessed the situation and it was decided that the safest option was to tow the distressed vessel.
The crew quickly established a tow line between the stranded vessel and the lifeboat safely towed the casualty vessel back to Morgan Marina, Brightlingsea.
Members of the crew were assisted by the harbour staff to moor the vessel, which was in poor condition and had several tenders attached, making the procedure difficult.
The West Mersea RNLI station sent thanks to all involved in the shout for their help and assistance.
The crew were stood down and returned to the lifeboat station where the lifeboat was cleaned, refuelled, and put back on active service shortly afterwards.
RNLI media contacts
For more information please contact:
Mark Walsham, RNLI Clacton volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 07468511158, or,
[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.
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.