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Mudeford RNLI assists vessel in difficulty with 17 people on board

Lifeboats News Release

On Sunday 23 June 2024 at 8.01pm, the Mudeford RNLI volunteer crew were tasked to a vessel anchored 2.5 miles off Hengistbury Head with engine failure and taking on water.

An orange RNLI rib and 4 crew speed through Christchurch Harbour

RNLI/Des Stevens

The Mudeford Servant Atlantic 85 lifeboat and volunteer crew in Christchurch Harbour
The crew launched at 8:08pm and arrived on scene at 8:15pm. Upon arrival, the crew made an assessment of the situation and established the casualty vessel's own pump could not keep up with the inflow of water. The crew set up a salvage pump to reduce the water level inside the vessel. The crew then fitted an emergency bung to the site where water was penetrating and managed to stem the flow of water enough for the boat's own pump to then maintain the water level inside.

A tug from Poole was dispatched to tow the vessel to harbour. The Mudeford RNLI crew remained with the vessel until the tug arrived to ensure the safety of all on board.

The crew returned to the station at 11:45 pm.

Mudeford RNLI volunteer Helm, Andy Read, commented, "Although there were a lot of passengers on board, the casualty vessel had sufficient lifesaving equipment. Fortunately, we were able to quickly stabilize the situation so the boat could be towed to harbour. We're pleased everyone was recovered safe and well. '

The Mudeford Servant Atlantic 85 lifeboat has launched 36 times this year so far and launched 85 times last year.

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.