On the 6th September the fishing boat Sarah Ann, of Hoylake, returning from the fishing grounds, ran aground on the West Hoyle Bank. As the weather was threatening, it was decided to take out the Life-boat Admiral Briggs, and at 7.35 P.M. the Boat proceeded to the vessel, which was found to be leaking badly, put some men on board to assist the crew of four and took her into the pool at Hilbre Island.

A lamentable accident occurred in connection with this service. After the launch of the Life-boat an attempt was being made to haul up the trolley •which conveys the Boat along the slipway. While the operations were in progress, Edward Lilley, Boatman H.M. Coastguard, stationedstationed at Hoylake, was struck on the head by one of the handles of the winch, causing a compound fracture of the skull.

Two medical men. were in attendance as soon as possible, but the injuries proved fatal in about four hours.

The Committee of Management expressed their deep sympathy with Mr.

Lilley's widow, and granted the sum of £150 towards the fund raised locally for her relief..