Yarmouth RNLI was called out twice in as many hours yesterday (Sunday), bringing a total of 5 emergencies in the space of just 7 days – including one of the biggest tows in the history of the station.
At just before midday the volunteer lifeboat crew were called to assist a 37ft yacht in difficulties at Colwell Bay. The yacht, Protégé, had been dismasted and although at anchor, the crew of 6 were unable to get the rig aboard and needed assistance.
3 RNLI crewmen went aboard and managed to recover the rig to enable the yacht to motor to Yarmouth. The lifeboat stood by the casualty vessel on passage to Yarmouth in case of further developments. Thankfully, no one was injured.
By 13:15 the All Weather Lifeboat was back on station, but just 30 minutes later it was tasked once again, this time to assist an 85ft schooner, Spirit of Falmouth, which was in need of help in Christchurch Bay.
The casualty vessel was suffering from machinery failure and, though able to sail, she was unable to manoeuvre into harbour and required a tow. The lifeboat took her alongside and escorted her safely into Yarmouth Harbour.
The Spirit of Falmouth was one of the bigger tows ever established by Yarmouth RNLI.
