The whelk boats belonging to Sheringham left for the fishing grounds at about 6 o'clock in the morning on the 8th April. The weather was then fine, with a moderate wind and a moderately smooth sea.

About 8 o'clock the wind began to freshen and the sea to make. It was obviously impossible for the boats to get safely ashore on account of the heavy breaking sea : the Life-boat J. G. Madge was therefore launched and went to their assistance. Six men were taken out of two boats and brought ashore.

The Life-boat then returned and rescued six men from two more boats, towing the boats into safety..