AT 4.30 in the afternoon of April 28th a steamer's whistle was heard at New- biggin, blowing from a position north of Church Point. There was a dense fog.

A moderate breeze was blowing from E.S.E., but the sea was very heavy.

The Life-boat was launched and went out under oars towards the sound of the whistle. She found a steam-trawler, George R. Purdy, of North Shields, on the rocks, which extend out for half a mile from the shore. A very heavy surf was breaking over them. The Life-boat first tried to reach the trawler by anchoring to seaward of her and veering down, but twice she was struck by heavy seas which completely filled her and threatened to wash the crew out of her. The Coxswain then weighed anchor, went half a mile northwards, and, with the help of the drogue, took the Life-boat through a narrow passage in the rocks, so as to get between the wreck and the shore. Heavy seas were con- stantly breaking over her, but she suc- ceeded without mishap in getting i through the rocks and then along a very | narrow channel until she was on the lee I side of the trawler. A lifebuoy and line ' were floated down to the vessel, and by I means of them the Life-boat was hauled I alongside and took off the crew. With ! great difficulty the Life-boat was got I clear of the rocks again.

Altogether the service took two hours, i but the actual rescue was carried out ; in about half an hour. Not only was the surf very heavy, but the tide was falling, which added considerably to the danger of the service. It was only the excellent seamanship of the Cox- swain and his perfect knowledge of the rocks and currents which made possible the rescue of the nine men and saved the Life-boat herself from being wrecked.

In recognition of the skill and gal- lantry shown, the Institution awarded its Bronze Medal to the Coxswain, William Robinson, and made additional monetary awards to the Crew and helpers..