Port Talbot RNLI task to a broken down vessel at risk of running aground
This afternoon (Sunday 4 January at 2.11pm ) Port Talbot RNLI were paged for the second time this New Year.
Port Talbot RNLI volunteers had only just left the station after their freezing Sunday training session with most only just warming up and taking their first bite of their Sunday lunch when the pager interrupted.
Launching into freshening Northerly breeze straight from the Arctic volunteer crew launched swiftly but safely minutes after being paged.
HM Coastguard tasking the inshore lifeboat Craig Morris to the casualty vessel with mechanical difficulties at risk of running aground off the Morfa side of the Long Arm Pier.
After a swift but safe passage to the last reported position of the casualty, Port Talbot RNLI helm completed a risk assessment taking into consideration the rapidly falling temperatures, reducing light and risk of grounding.
The decision was made to tow the vessel to the closest port of safety, the River Afan, after turning the many hours of tow training into perfect technique, and commencing the slow tow back. The freshening wind and deteriorating sea conditions resulted in the tow line parting and the entire procedure having to be rapidly restarted.
Port Talbot RNLI helm taking heed of the worsening sea conditions and knowing there was an hour before the tide was sufficiently in to secure the casualty vessel, adopted a steady but sure speed arriving precisely at the right stage of the tide to secure the vessel to the Afan Boat Club pontoon for recovery to their trailer.
Kirstee David Port Talbot RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer said: 'Our water safety messages are vital for anyone who goes in or around the water, we have a team of people who provide constant updates. We share key safety tips on our social media platforms. Please follow our Facebook page for reminders and current advice on keeping safe whilst in the water and around our coastline. Our team at Port Talbot are incredible. They train weekly, keep our shop open 7 days a week and fundraise. They serve our community humbly and with pride. They appreciate all the support and this support fuels the lifesaving service they provide'.
Once the vessel was secured the crew were stood down by HM Coastguard, returning to their recovery site on Aberavon beach, refuelling, washing down and making ready for service before enjoying a well earned cup of hot tea.
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 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.