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RNLI Tighnabruaich callout to assist drifting yacht ahead of forecast storm

Lifeboats News Release

With flank station RNLI Largs off service, HM Coastguard tasked volunteer crew from Tighnabruaich, to assist a 23ft yacht drifting in light conditions in the vicinity of Toward having run out of fuel.

Inshore lifeboat in the boatshed

RNLI/Jane Boyd

Inshore lifeboat James and Helen Mason
Setting course just after 6pm on Friday 22 November the inshore lifeboat headed for less familiar territory than usual. Lifeboat crew found the yacht’s occupant safe, planning to head to Loch Riddon to shelter from forecast strong winds. Helm Nigel Sim explained “we gave him some petrol and he then motored under his own power, escorted by the lifeboat, into Rothesay and placed on a secure berth.”

With conditions set to deteriorate, Nigel continued, we “passed on some advice on the need for suitable navigation lights and a working VHF radio. When venturing out to sail always check the forecast and tide times, and always carry a means of calling for help".

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