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Both Exmouth RNLI lifeboats in search on River Exe

Lifeboats News Release

Volunteer crew of Exmouth RNLI were tasked to search an area of the River Exe following the activation of a DSC distress alert this evening.

RNLI/Chris Sims

Exmouth Inshore Lifeboat launches for the search.

At 7.12pm Friday 19th May 2023, H.M. Coastguard tasked the volunteer crew of both Exmouth RNLI all weather lifeboat 13-03 R & J Welburn and the relief inshore lifeboat D-792 Marie Theresa Bertha Barrass after multiple DSC distress alerts were received in the vicinity of the River Exe at Exton. The launch was authorised by Deputy Launch Authority, Rob Anderson.

Both lifeboats were launched very shortly afterwards. The all weather lifeboat crewed by Coxswain Steve Hockings-Thompson with Andy Stott, Roy Stott, James Edge, Geoff Mills, Guy Munnings and the inshore lifeboat by Helm Harry Griffin, Ed Steele and Dougie Wright. They were assisted on scene by Exmouth Coastguard Rescue Team.

A thorough search of the River Exe was conducted by both lifeboats and a number of vessels were checked out by the volunteer crews. Nothing untoward was found and, satisfied that all avenues had been explored and no one was in distress, H.M. Coastguard stood down both boats at 8.20pm today.

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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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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