By Isle of Wight Observer
Cowes RNLI had a busy start to September with two callouts in three days.
The first came at 7.45pm on Saturday, September 6, when the volunteer crew were asked to assist a small powerboat with engine failure between Ryde and Fishbourne.
In fading light and rough conditions, with wind against tide, the inshore lifeboat Sheena Louise launched to the vessel, which had two people on board and was drifting towards the main shipping channel.
A nearby yacht had already gone to help. The RNLI crew decided to tow the powerboat into Fishbourne, where Bembridge Coastguard Rescue Team were waiting. The lifeboat returned to station just before 10pm.
Helm Adam said the volunteers had “done a good job in rough conditions” and highlighted the importance of training to ensure safe rescues.
On Monday, September 8, the Cowes crew were called again at 4.30pm to assist a yacht with engine trouble near Beaulieu. The vessel, with two men on board, was struggling under sail. Two RNLI crew went aboard and decided the safest option was to tow the yacht back to Trinity Landing. After securing the vessel and giving safety advice, the crew returned to station at 6pm before launching again an hour later for scheduled training.
Cowes RNLI provides a 24/7 rescue service in the Solent, alongside 237 other stations around the UK, funded entirely by donations.
Isle of Wight Observer