Douglas RNLI lifeboat was launched yesterday (15th August) at 5.50pm to go to the aid of a 10m fishing vessel 4 miles east of Douglas.
Douglas’s Tyne class all-weather lifeboat, RNLB Sir William Hillary, launched into worsening sea conditions to go to the aid of the fishing vessel which was suffering from fuel starvation. With a mist coming down and the rising sea conditions the casualty had called for assistance while they continued to try and remedy the fault.
In charge on his first call out since recently qualifying as a Deputy Second Coxswain was Graeme Cushnie who said: ‘Utilising our RNLI training we confirmed the casualty’s location using radar and the direction finding capabilities of VHF radio. When on scene a tow was quickly established in what were relatively challenging sea conditions with a significant swell and building sea. When we reached the more sheltered conditions of the harbour, the crew shortened the tow and brought the casualty vessel alongside the Sir William Hilary to be berthed.’
Having returned the casualty safely to Douglas harbour, the lifeboat was recovered to its boathouse and made ready again for service.
Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer with the RNLI as lifeboat crew, shore helper, or fundraiser should contact their nearest lifeboat station.