Minehead RNLI in two yacht call-outs
Minehead's volunteer RNLI crew have taken to the waters twice in the past fortnight to assist stricken yachts
The first call-out was to assist Ilfracombe RNLI with a yacht drifting in Lynmouth Bay, having run out of fuel and with a skipper and their child incapacitated due to sea-sickness. The skipper knew to call Coastguard for assistance on 999, but was unable to communicate with the RNLI crew due to lack of knowledge with VHF radios. There were insufficient functioning lifejackets on board. Minehead's crew helped Ilfracombe tow the yacht to safety in Combe Martin.
On Sunday, the crew assisted a yacht sailing from Portishead to Cornwall with engine trouble. The boat was towed into Minehead Harbour due to the lack of a suitable anchor on board.
Chairman Richard Newton commented "both of these rescues really indicate the need for crews to be prepared before setting sail. Thankfully both had a happy outcome but the consequences could have been far worse. Make sure you know what you are doing, carry the correct equipment and know how to use it".
RNLI Media Contacts
For further information, please contact:
Sam Donati, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for RNLI South West, [email protected]
Emma Haines, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for South West England, 07786 668847, [email protected]
Amy Caldwell, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for South West England, 07920 818807, [email protected]
RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]
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.