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Withernsea and Humber RNLI joint call out

Lifeboats News Release

On Tuesday 10 September 2019, Withernsea and Humber lifeboats were tasked to assist a 28 foot sailing yacht which had encountered technical issues east of Withernsea.

RNLI/Withernsea

Withernsea D class, Humber Lifeboat and casualty vessel

Withernsea lifeboat got the initial call at 11.40am. They were prepared and in the water by 11.50am. The volunteer crew were asked to standby as Humber lifeboat were also tasked.

Once on scene, the yacht had an anchor out but this was dragging, so as a crew they made a joint decision to tow the yacht south to meet Humber lifeboat.

Withernsea lifeboat took the tow 3.5 miles before handing over to the Humber lifeboat, who arrived on scene at 12.45pm.

Humber proceeded to tow the vessel south to Grimsby fish docks, arriving shortly after 3pm.

Humber's 2ndCoxswain Col Fisk said: 'On this occasion the yachtsman called for help straight away therefore allowing both lifeboats to assist in returning the vessel and crew safely to port. Any vessel can be unfortunate enough to suffer technical issues, however it is always important to carry out the relevant checks before heading out to sea, and having a means of calling for help, something such as a handheld VHF.’

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For more information please contact Rachel Gowen, RNLI Volunteer Press Officer: [email protected]

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 142,700 lives.

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