At 3.40 P.M. on the 4th March, in consequence of signals from the Bock Lighthouse at the entrance of the Mersey, the tubular Life-boat Willie and Arthur started in tow of the steam-tug Wonder for the Pormby Spit. A moderate gale was blowing from the W.N.W., accompanied by a heavy sea. On nearing the Spit it was found that the schooner lona, of Belfast, bound from Bridge water to Liverpool with a cargo of stone, had struck on the bank and foundered, but the mast remaining above water, 3 of the crew had succeeded in securing themselves in the rigging; the master, however, was washed away and perished. The Life-boat had great difficulty in embarking the rest of the men.

After the rescue had been effected she was obliged to remain at anchor near the wreck for a couple of hours till the tide turned, as she was unable to stem it.

Eventually she made sail and succeeded in reaching the steam-tug, which towed her back to her station by 8 P.M..