Aldeburgh, Suffolk. At 6.56 on the evening of the 28th of October, 1959, the coastguard informed the honorary secretary that a vessel was burning red flares five miles north-east of Sizewell.

At 7.10 the life-boat The Alfred and Patience Gottwald was launched in a heavy swell. There was a moderate north-north-westerly wind and it was shortly before high water. While the life-boat was making for the position the coastguard reported that the s.s.

Snowcrete of London had taken the motor launch Rafla in tow, as the launch's engine had broken down. The life-boat met the Snowcrete and took over the tow. Towing proved difficult, and the Rafla was anchored one mile south-east of Southwold, where the engine was repaired. Shortly after the Rafla got under way her engine broke down again and the crew of two were taken on board the life-boat. After anchoring the motor launch the life-boat made for Lowestoft harbour, as con- ditions were unfavourable for rehousing at Aldeburgh. She finally returned to her station at 12.15 on the afternoon of the 29th of October. Rewards to the crew, £24 ; rewards to the helpers on shore, £29 2s. 6d..