Hartlepool, Co. Durham.—28th February.

At 11.19 A.M. the coastguard reported that the s.s. Miguel, of Bilbao, was in difficulties with her steeringchain broken, about twelve miles E.N.E. of West Hartlepool. A N.E.

gale was blowing, with a very heavy sea and occasional snowstorms. The motor life-boat Elizabeth Newton was launched at 11. 36 A.M., but although she made a wide search, was unable to find any sign of the Miguel. The Miguel was eventually picked up by tugs. On her return journey the life-boat saw the s.s. Fingal I, of Stavanger, making very heavy weather.

The Fingal I had a bad list to port, but was not in immediate danger, and did not want the life-boat's help. The life-boat, therefore, went on to Hartlepool, and arrived back at her station at 5 P.M., after five and a half hours at sea in extremely severe weather. A big sea swept over the life-boat, knocking down the assistant motor mechanic. He injured his head and ribs, and was unconscious for about four hours. A letter of appreciation was sent to the branch and an increase in the usual money award on the standard scale was granted to each member of the crew.—Rewards, £14 2s..