During a strong W.S.W. gale with very heavy sea on the 26th December, signals of distress were observed to the westward.

In response the Life-boat John William Dudley was launched at 9 P.M. and pro- ceeded to the vessel, which proved to be the s.s. Bedeburn, of Newcastle, laden with coal. The vessel was in a helpless condition owing to having lost her propeller. The Life-boat stood by for some time, and eventually tugs arrived on the scene ; the Life-boat then rendered assistance in effecting com- munication, and the vessel was subse- quently towed away..