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Harwich RNLI and NCI Felixstowe collaborate in a rescue off Felixstowe

Lifeboats News Release

The Harwich RNLI inshore lifeboat (ILB) was launched after receiving an emergency call regarding a capsized dinghy with a person in the water.

RNLI/Jeff Welch

The Harwich RNLI ILB

Harwich RNLI's volunteer crew successfully rescued a single male who was in distress after his dinghy capsized off the coast of Felixstowe.

The incident took place on 30 July 2023 and thanks to the timely intervention of the National Coastwatch Institution (NCI) Felixstowe, the charity's lifeboat was directed to the casualty, preventing a potential massive search area.

The NCI team at Felixstowe played a pivotal role by promptly directing the ILB to the exact location of the casualty. Without their crucial assistance, the search area could have been significantly larger, adding complexity and time to the rescue operation.

The ILB crew efficiently recovered the man and his capsized dinghy and brought them safely to Felixstowe beach.

The Harwich RNLI and NCI Felixstowe collaboration showcases the importance of effective coordination between different organisations in coastal safety and rescue efforts.

The crew of the Harwich RNLI ILB are all volunteers. Their unwavering commitment to saving lives at sea is a testament to their dedication and selflessness. Responding to emergencies, often in challenging conditions, requires rigorous training, bravery, and teamwork.

It's noteworthy to mention that this was a momentous moment for Damon Stuart, one of the volunteers at Harwich RNLI, as this was his first shout in the ILB.

Notes to Editors

The RNLI is the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.

Harwich RNLI is based on The Quay, Harwich. The lifeboat station was founded in 1829 and the volunteer crew use an all-weather Severn class lifeboat (ALB) The Duke of Kent and B class lifeboat (ILB) Tierney, Harvey and Sonny Reid.

NCI watchkeepers provide the eyes and ears along the coast, monitoring radio channels and providing a listening watch in poor visibility. They are trained to deal with emergencies offering a variety of skills and experience, and full training by the NCI ensures that high standards are met.

RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact Adam Prescott, volunteer RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer: [email protected]

Or, the RNLI Press Office: [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, Twitter 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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