On the evening of the 16th January, during hazy weather, the s.s. H. B. Brightman struck on the rocks north of Staithes.

Although the sea was comparatively smooth on the rocks around the steamer, it was too rough for any of the cobles to go out, and it was, therefore, thought advisable to launch the Life-boat. The boat accordingly proceeded to the vessel, and, at the request of the master, remained by her until she floated, and for about 1^ hours afterwards, and then returned ashore. The steamer, which was bound from the Tyne to Alexandria, returned north, but foundered before reaching the Tyne; her crew were fortunately saved in their own boats..