Boat launched : D-Class
Date : Sunday 19 April
Launched at : 16:38
Returned at : 17:36
Weather : Fine with a sharp NE F4 wind.
A yacht made a MAYDAY call as the skipper suspected he had a leak and was taking on water, so he ran the yacht aground. After some confusion the D-Class lifeboat was launched as the DLA could see the casualty yacht aground on the Winner Bank. The Harbour Patrol Vessel and Hayling Rescue were attending but in deeper water and the lifeboat was able to get close. The lifeboat helm went aboard the yacht and checked for water coming in, and since the tide was dropping rapidly checked outside the hull. All seemed OK and it seemed likely that sea water taken into the gas locker during passage had drained into the bilges. The lifeboat crew laid out a kedge anchor for when she re-floated and it was agreed that the owner would check the bilges as she re-floated and call for assistance if needed. The lifeboat returned to station and the other vessels were also stood down. (Footnote : No further call for assistance was received when the tide returned.)
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