Newhaven RNLI launched their Severn Class all-weather lifeboat ‘David and Elizabeth Acland’ on a rescue mission to assist a yacht that had lost its rudder south of Birling Gap.
Battling moderate sea conditions, force six winds, and large waves, the volunteer crew launched swiftly and arrived on scene just 20 minutes after launch. The yacht, participating in a race from Eastbourne to Cowes, had six people on board.
After assessing the situation, the lifeboat crew determined the safest course of action was to tow the yacht back to Newhaven Harbour. The operation was conducted safely despite the rough sea state.
David, one of the crew aboard the yacht, described the sight of the approaching lifeboat as a “huge relief” and praised the skill of the RNLI volunteers:
“Seeing the lifeboat approaching was a huge relief to myself, and everyone onboard. Watching the crew manoeuvre in rough seas to get into position for the tow was impressive.”
In a touching gesture of thanks, the yacht’s crew gifted the lifeboat crew Easter eggs after their safe arrival.
The rescue marked two firsts for Newhaven RNLI: John Simcock’s first shout as volunteer Coxswain, and Will Rowell’s first shout as an operational crew member.
John Simcock said:
“This was my first shout as Coxswain. I had some initial nerves, but once launched, the training kicked in. We made the decision to tow the yacht to safety rather than attempt a more hazardous recovery at sea.”
Will Rowell added:
“When the pager went off for the first time, the adrenaline kicked in. It was an incredible feeling to be part of bringing the crew safely back.”
The lifeboat returned to Newhaven at 4pm, with the casualty yacht berthed safely in the harbour.
The RNLI relies on a dedicated network of volunteers, with 97% of its lifesavers serving unpaid to provide a 24/7 rescue service across the UK and Ireland.
Newhaven RNLI continues to remind the public that without donations and volunteers, vital life-saving rescues like this wouldn’t be possible.
