Visitors to Bembridge RNLI’s weekly training launch were treated to an extra special demonstration yesterday evening (Tuesday) when the All Weather Lifeboat practiced towing a hovercraft.
One of Hovertravel’s modern hovercraft – Solent Flyer – made it’s way around to Bembridge before deflating the skirt and awaiting the arrival of the ‘rescuers’.
In front of the hundreds of visitors who had filled the offshore boathouse, the Tamar-class lifeboat made a splash into the sea before powering away and commencing the joint exercise.
It is understood to have been the first time Bembridge Lifeboat have trained with a hovercraft – a unique opportunity for the volunteer crew members and for the charity as a whole.
A spokesperson for Hovertravel has said of the exercise:
”Drills such as this are to maintain the highest possible standards of safety.
“Hovertravel welcomes this opportunity to work alongside these professionals”.
Island Echo conducted a live broadcast of the launch to Facebook – Join us at www.facebook.com/islandecho.
