Walton and Frinton, Essex.—At 5.50 on the 29th of June, 1953, the Walton- on-the-Xaze coastguard rang up to say that the German steamer Dorte, of Stade. had taken in tow a yacht which had been in difficulties on the North East Gunfleet Sands. The yachts- men asked for the life-boat, and at 6.5 the life-boat Thomas Markby, on temporary duty at the station, put to sea. The sea was moderate, with a north-easterly breeze blowing. The life-boat found the yacht Alanna, of London, with a crew of three. They had set out for a cruise on the Dutch canals, but had been overtaken by bad weather, and had lost their fore- stay and bowsprit. The life-boat towed the yacht to Harwich and then returned to her station, arriving at 12.30 early on the 30th. The skipperexpressed his appreciation and made a gift to the life-boatmen.—Rewards, £19..