Propeller problems prompt Aith RNLI launch

The Severn-class RNLI lifeboat based in Aith was launched at 12.25pm at the request of the Maritime & Coastguard Agency, to the vicinity of the Clair oil field.

An oil supply vessel was standing by to assist the stricken power boat, which had three people onboard, while the volunteer lifeboat crew undertook the lengthy passage to the area.

On arrival, and having assessed the situation, the lifeboat took the vessel under tow to West Burrafirth – where a diver was on hand to carry out any required surveys and repairs.

The lifeboat and her volunteer crew then returned to Aith lifeboat station at around 9pm, bringing the callout to a safe conclusion.

Aith RNLI coxswain Nathan Mann said:

"This was a lengthy callout, with the pleasure boat around 43 miles north-west of Shetland.

"Thankfully, the three people onboard were safe and well, and with an oil supply vessel standing by, there was no immediate danger.

"It was a long day for the crew, but we were pleased to get everyone safely to shore."

Note to editors

Aith's RNLI lifeboat station has been operating for over 80 years, and is the most northerly in the UK. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to: https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/aith-lifeboat-station

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For further information, please contact:

Daniel Lawson, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for RNLI Scotland, [email protected]

Richard Smith, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Scotland, 07826 900639, [email protected]

Martin Macnamara, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Scotland, 07920 365929, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]

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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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