The steamer Va la, of Grangemouth, whilst bound from Valencia to Hull with a cargo of oranges, was weather-bound off Gorleston on the 21st February. Being short of provisions they sent off a boat containing five men to procure some, but in the strong northerly gale prevailing and the tide the boat was unable to make the harbour and was carried towards the Gorton Sands. This being reported by the Coastguard to the Coxswain, the No. 1 Life-boat Mark Lane was promptly launched, and in tow of tug proceeded after the boat, which they overhauled near the sand. As the steamer's crew were quite exhausted and the boat was half full of water they were transferred to the Life-boat, which returned to harbour as soon as possible and landed them. Later in the day, when the men had recovered, a tug took them out and with some difficulty put them on board their vessel. There was a heavy snow- storm at the time..