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RNLB Helen Comrie launches to support yacht in distress

Lifeboats News Release

On 1 July 2024, the Longhope RNLI lifeboat, RNLB Helen Comrie, launched to the aid of a yacht in distress. The volunteer crew were quick to respond and the lifeboat was on its way 12 minutes after the alarm sounded.

RNLI/Vicky Mackinnon

Crew Prepare to launch RNLB Helen Comrie

At 1:30pm on Monday 1 July, a tasking request was received from HM Coastguard reporting a yacht in distress. By 1:45pm, the volunteer crew were aboard, and RNLB Helen Comrie was launched.

The lifeboat made best speed towards the casualty vessel's location, arriving on scene at 2:09pm. HMS Magpie, which was in the vicinity, had made contact with the yacht and escorted it towards Widewall Bay, a sheltered enclave on the western side of South Ronaldsay.

The single-crewed yacht contacted HM Coastguard, reporting difficulty in making way, an inability to raise the sails, and fear of being blown ashore due to the weather conditions. RNLB Helen Comrie escorted the yacht to the anchorage point and ensured that the anchor was safely down and all was well before returning to Longhope RNLI Lifeboat Station at 2:50pm, where she was made ready for service.

Coxswain, Ian Avis said, ‘The single-handed yachtsman did exactly the right thing when he felt that he could be in danger, and that was to call HM Coastguard. Our volunteer crew are always happy to support, at any time of the day or night, and it’s always a bonus when things end well.’

With the summer months upon us, there is nothing better than spending time on the water. However, the weather in Orkney can be unpredictable, so always check the forecast before setting sail and be prepared for sudden changes. Ensure you consult charts, tidal guides, and sailing directions, and do not hesitate to ask for local advice. Most importantly, always carry a means of calling for help. Consider using additional methods like the SafeTrx App, which allows you to plan your journey, register your vessel with the Coastguard, and can alert the Coastguard if you are overdue.

Notes to editors

· Longhope lifeboat station has been operating since 1874 and celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2024. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to: Longhope Lifeboat Station (rnli.org)

RNLI media contacts

Vicky Mackinnon, Lifeboat Press Officer, 07703 688066, [email protected]

Natasha Bennett, RNLI Regional Media Officer for Scotland, 07826 900639, [email protected]

Martin Macnamara, RNLI Regional Media Manager for Scotland, 07920 365929, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789

RNLI/Vicky Mackinnon

The lifeboat leaves Longhope Harbour

RNLI/Vicky Mackinnon

RNLB Helen Comrie and her volunteer crew return safely to harbour

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.