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Barry Dock RNLI lifeboat assists fishing vessel near Stout Point in fading light

Lifeboats News Release

Barry Dock RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat (ALB) launched yesterday afternoon to assist a 37ft fishing vessel in difficulty west of Stout Point, after its propeller and rudder were fouled by debris in the water. (Thursday 28 November)

Barry Dock lifeboat towing fishing boat at distance to safety away from the reef

RNLI

Barry Dock lifeboat towing fishing boat to safety away from the reef

The vessel was drifting dangerously close to the reef off Llantwit Major beach due to a combination of easterly weather conditions and an outgoing tide. As daylight faded, the situation grew increasingly precarious, with the vessel at risk of running aground. Barry Dock lifeboat crew responded swiftly, establishing a towline to bring the vessel to safety.

Demonstrating exceptional skill and teamwork, the volunteer crew successfully towed the fishing vessel to Barry Harbour, where it was secured onto a swinging mooring.

Andy Gavan, Barry Dock Lifeboat Station Coxswain, said:

‘This shout highlights the importance of being prepared and responsive at sea. Thanks to the professionalism of the crew and their swift actions, we were able to assist the fishing vessel and prevent what could have been a much more serious situation.’

The operation lasted around four hours, with all volunteers dedicating their time to ensure the safety of those onboard. Once the fishing vessel was secured, Barry Dock lifeboat returned to station and was made ready for service.

Notes to editors

Photo - Barry Dock’s Shannon ALB towing the yacht bck to Barry Dock.

For further information, please contact:

Lisa Newberry, Lifeboat Press Officer, Barry Dock Lifeboat Station, 07977 922889.

Alternativey you can contact Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, Regional Communications Manager on [email protected] or 07977 728315, or contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.

RNLI online

For more information, please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the RNLI News Centre.

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 over 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and, in a normal year, 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.

RNLI at 200

On 4 March 2024 (RNLI’s 200th anniversray) and throughout the year, the RNLI celebrates 200 years of saving lives at sea – thanks to volunteers giving their time to save others, all funded by voluntary public donations. Throughout its 200th anniversary year, the charity is running events and activities to commemorate its history, celebrate the lifesaving service it provides today, and inspire generations of future lifesavers and supporters. For more information visit RNLI.org/200.

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.

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