RNLI Clacton launch to possible vessel fire

The volunteer crew launched their Atlantic 85 B-Class lifeboat David Porter MPS into clear but dark sea conditions and proceeded to the last reported location approximately 4-5 nautical miles straight off the lifeboat station, towards the windfarm offshore.

The information had come via a 999 call and had stated that there was a small vessel on fire.

Enroute to this location the coastguard requested that the crew return to the area around Pier Gap and await further instruction from Clacton Mobile units, who were also on scene. The Clacton Mobile team were able to confirm with the first informant that what was seen was the windfarm lights.

The crew were stood down and then proceeded back to the lifeboat station where the lifeboat was cleaned, refuelled and ready for service by 8.40pm.

RNLI media contacts

For more information please contact:
Mark Walsham, RNLI Clacton volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 07468511158, or [email protected]

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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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