Exmouth RNLI in Storm Darragh shout

Vessel was hazard to navigation

Six volunteers from Exmouth's RNLI took to sea on Saturday morning as Storm Darragh raged around them.

They were alerted to a drifting vessel which had no one on board.

With wind of more than 60mph (58 knots) and challenging seas, the reached the crewels boat and decided its ongoing movement would be a hazard to navigation.

The Coxswain was then able to skilfully manoeuvre the lifeboat alongside the drifting vessel in difficult breaking swell and, after a number of attempts, was able to safely place a crew member onboard.

The lifeboat volunteers then worked together to secure a tow to the vessel and take it under control for a slow tow back to Exmouth Marina, where they were met by volunteer colleagues from the local Coastguard Rescue teams.

Satisfied that the vessel was secured alongside, the cold and wet volunteers returned to the station at 1.10pm to wash down the lifeboat and prepare it for its next service.

Mike Gall, Exmouth RNLI Launch Authority said:

‘A good result in difficult conditions. The RNLI would always urge the need for all boat owners to ensure that the ground and deck tackle on their vessels is suitably robust to deal with forecast weather conditions.’