The local motor fishing boats Pilot Me and Success put to sea early on the morning of the 5th December in moderate weather. Later the wind and sea rose, and as it had been raining heavily since the previous night, the river was running strongly out of the harbour. At 11 A.M., when the boats were seen returning, a rough sea was breaking at the harbour entrance, and for a long way out to sea.

A strong N.E. breeze was blowing.

The motor life-boat Margaret Harker Smith was launched and escorted both boats through the dangerous harbour entrance into safety. Both boats used their drogues and one poured oil on to the sea to lessen the effects of the waves. The life-boat returned to her station at 12.40 P.M. — Rewards, £8 5s. 6d..