THE LIFE-BOAT FLEET 143 station life-boats 101 inshore rescue boats 1 70-foot steel life-boat on operational trials 1 44-foot steel life-boat on evaluation trials at Barry Dock LIVES RESCUED 90,321 from the Institution's foundation in 1824 to 30th November, 1968 Life-boat services SEPTEMBER No. 1 Life-boat Area O.N. 70-002 at Kirkwall - At 10.37 a.m. on 23rd September, 1968, the coastguard told the staff coxswain that a lobster boat had broken down half a mile north east of Gault buoy.

The 1RB carried aboard the life-boat Grace Patterson Ritchie was launched at 10.55. It was shortly before high water. She came up with the lobster boat Ewing McGruer, with a crew of two, and stood by until the arrival of the life-boat at 11.24. The lobster boat was then taken in tow to Kirkwall, and the life-boat returned to her moorings at 12.10 p.m.

round the Coasts No. 2 Life-boat Area Girvan, Ayrshire - At 4 p.m. on 5th September, 1968, the coastguard reported that a motor boat with two people on board was in difficulties in Maidens bay. Five minutes later the life-boat St. Andrew (Civil Service No. 10) slipped her moorings in a fresh south westerly breeze with a rough sea. On receipt of a radio message from Portpatrick that a boat had been sighted three miles off shore, a search was carried out from three miles west of Maidens harbour, working inshore. A small boat was seen anchored off shore and appar- ently empty. The life-boat carried out a further search, returned to the anchored boat, and in the bottom of her found a man and a boy who were transferred to the life-boat. The motor boat was taken in tow to the harbour, and the life-boat returned to her station at 6.20.

Islay, Inner Hebrides - At 7.40 a.m.

on 8th September, 1968, the acting honorary secretary learnt that the s.s. Agois Minus of Monrovia was aground about two miles from Port- haven and a land party were going out to search. The life-boat crew assembled and stood by. At 8.23 the acting honorary secretary received a further message from the coastguard informing him that the ship was in no immediate danger and only required the assistance of a tug. Later it was decided to launch the life-boat as the ship was now holed and flooded. At 12.50 p.m. the life-boat Henry Blogg, on temporary duty at the station, was launched in a strong south easterly breeze with a rough sea. It was high water. She came up with the vessel half a mile north of French- mans rocks, rescued her crew of 16 and landed them at Port Askaig, returning to her station at 11.30 a.m.

on 9th September.

Workington, Cumberland - At 9.15 a.m. on 27th September, 1958, the coastguard sent an anticipatory mes- sage to the coxswain tha the fishing boat Provider, with two men on board, which had left Harrington on the previous afternoon, was overdue.

At 11 o'clock the life-boat Man- chester and Salford XXIX slipped her moorings in a strong west south westerly gale with a rough sea. It was low water. She found the Provider one mile south west of Workington with her engine broken down. The crew were taken aboard the life-boat which then took the fishing boat in tow to Workington. The life-boat returned to her station at 12.15 p.m.

No. 3 Life-boat Area Flamborough, Yorkshire - At 3.58 576 p.m. on 1st September, 1968, it was learnt that a boy had fallen over the cliff at Thornwick bay and that the assistance of the life-boat had been requested by the police. Twelve minutes later the life-boat Friendly Forester was launched in a strong south easterly breeze with a choppy sea. The tide was ebbing. On reach- ing the position the coxswain anchored and veered the life-boat in astern. With the assistance of skin divers the boy was taken aboard the life-boat. She then returned to har- bour where an ambulance was wait- ing to take the boy to hospital. The life-boat returned to her station at 4.40.

No. 4 Life-boat Area Lowestoft, Suffolk - At 9.3 p.m. on 10th September, 1968, the honorary secretary was notified that flares had been sighted off Pakefield. The life- boat Frederick Edward Crick slipped her moorings at 9.9 in a gentle south easterly wind with choppy sea. The tide was ebbing. The life-boat came up with the fishing boat Coronation with a crew of two on board. Her propeller had been fouled. The life- boat took the fishing boat in tow to Lowestoft, returning to her station at 9.45.

No. 5 Life-boat Area Hastings, Sussex - At 9.30 a.m. on 20th September, 1968, the motor mechanic informed the honorary secretary that the crew of three aboard a dredger west of St. Leonards wished to be taken off in view of the deteriorating weather conditions. At 10.20 the life-boat Fairlight was launched in a west south westerly gale with a rough sea. It was high water. While going to the dredger she sighted the yacht Bavaria flying a distress signal. At 10.55 she came up with the dredger and took off her crew. She then returned to the assis- tance of the yacht one mile south of St. Leonards bathing pool. Her crew of two were taken aboard the life- boat, and the yacht was safely anchored. The life-boat landed the five men at Hastings, returning to her station at 11.25.

Shoreham, Sussex - On 22nd Sep- tember, 1968, the life-boat Dorothy and Philip Constant was launched to the yacht Jean Ann. A full account of this service appears on page 557.

Ramsgate, Kent - At 5.14 p.m. on 23rd September, 1968, the coast- guard reported that a small boat in Pegwell bay needed assistance. The life-boat Michael and Lily Davis slipped her moorings at 5.25 in a fresh westerly breeze with a slight sea.

The tide was ebbing. She found the cabin cruiser Folly aground in Peg- well bay. A helicopter had taken two men off and one man was still aboard. The life-boat returned to her station, collected the boarding boat, and stood by until it was possible to use the boarding boat to pass a line to the cabin cruiser. The cruiser was taken in tow to Ramsgate, and the life-boat returned to her station at 10.10.

No. 6 Life-boat Area Weymouth, Dorset - At 3.5 a.m. on 6th September, 1968, the coastguard reported that red flares had been seen in Bowleaze cove. Twenty minutes later the life-boat Frank Spiller Locke was launched. It was low water. She came up with the cabin cruiser Kantara, with four people on board, ashore at Preston beach. The life- boat was unable to close the cruiser and the boarding boat was used to get a line on board. The cruiser was then pulled clear and taken in tow to Weymouth. The life-boat returned to her station at 5 o'clock.

On 2nd September, 1968, the life- boat Frank Spiller Locke put out to the yacht Frances Helen. A full account of this service appears on page 552.

Salcombe, Devon - At 4.10 p.m. on 15th September, 1968, it was learnt that a yacht was in difficulties near Starhole bay. At 4.43 the life-boat The Baltic Exchange slipped her moorings in a strong north easterly breeze with a rough sea. It was low water. Shortly before the arrival of the life-boat the yacht Daphne sank and the crew of two—a man and his wife—scrambled on to the Mewstone rock. The coxswain manoeuvred the life-boat to within 15 feet of the couple and a line was passed to them.

Once on board the life-boat they were given hot soup and the man was treated for abrasions on his hands and feet. The life-boat returned to her station at 5.30 where a doctor and ambulance were waiting. A donation was made to the Institu- tion's funds.

Plymouth, Devon - At 5.44 a.m. on 16th September, 1968, the coast- guard told the honorary secretary that the British vessel Chartsman was standing by the yacht Khojak 13 miles off Eddystone lighthouse.

The life-boat Thomas Forehead and Mary Rowse slipped her moorings at 6 o'clock in a north westerly gale and a rough sea. The tide was ebbing.

At 7.43 she came up with the yacht which was sheltering in the lee of the Chartsman in heavy seas. The yacht was taken in tow to Plymouth, and the life-boat returned to her station at 1 p.m.

LAUNCHES AND LIVES SAVED BY LIFE-BOATS AND IRBs 1st September to 30th November: Launches 566, lives saved 294No. 8 Life-boat Area Holyhead, Anglesey - At 1.25 p.m.

2nd September, 1968, the coastguard told the assistant honorary secretary that the motor boat Valkyrie had broken down 100 yards off shore and required assistance. Fifteen minutes later the life-boat St Cybi (Civil Service No. 9) was launched. The tide was flooding. At 2.35 the honorary secretary received a further message from the coastguard inform- ing him that the life-boat with the motor boat in tow was in difficulties near the rocks at Forth Ruffydd. The life-boat took two people off the motor boat, slipped her tow, and returned to her station at 3.37.

Rhyl, Flintshire - At 11.1 a.m. on 29th September, 1968, it was learnt that red flares had been sighted twomiles north east of Rhos point. At 11.37 the life-boat Har-Lil was launched in a fresh west north westerly breeze and a rough sea. The tide was flooding. She came up with the cabin cruiser Siraly , with three people on board, off Llandulas and escorted her to Rhyl. As the weather deteriorated it was impossible to take the cabin cruiser into the safety of Foryd harbour, so the life-boat towed her to Mostyn docks and then returned to Rhos to investigate another report that flares had been sighted off Rhos point. Inquiries were made and it was found that the flares had been fired from the pier to start the fishing festival. The life- boat then returned to the cabin cruiser and took her in tow to Mostyn harbour. The life-boat re- turned to her station at 5.45.

No. 10 Life-boat Area Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin - At 4.40 p.m. on 22nd September, 1968, the garda informed the honorary secretary that a yacht had fired a flare between the West pier and Howth. The life-boat John F. Kennedy slipped her moorings at 5 o'clock in a light westerly breeze with a smooth sea. It was high water. She came up with the yacht Estelle, which had been dismasted, two miles north east of Dun Laoghaire. The crew of three were taken aboard the life-boat and the yacht was taken in tow to Dun Laoghaire. The life-boat returned to her station at 7 o'clock.

See page 595 for other life-boat launches IRB LAUNCHES Rescues by IRBs in September were carried out by the following stations: No. 2 Life-boat Area Largs, Ayrshire - At 2.50 p.m. on 26th September, 1968, the police reported that a boat was sinking off Cumbrae. The IRB was launched at 3 o'clock and found a fibre glass dinghy with two men clinging to it.

The two men were embarked, the dinghy righted, and then taken in tow. It transpired that the dinghy's outboard engine had been left in gear and, when the men had started it, the force of the engine had upset the dinghy. The IRB returned to her station at 4.30.

At 12.30 a.m. on 20th September, 1968, it was learnt that a motor boat had been stolen from the Fairlie anchorage. The IRB was launched at 12.45 in a moderate to fresh north easterly wind. The IRB took two constables to Fairlie where they found two other policemen rowing out from the shore in an attempt to pick up a man who was swimming out to sea. The IRB picked up the man, returning to her station at 1.45.

Berwick-upon-Tweed, Northumber- land - At 4.47 p.m. on 29th Septem- ber, 1968, while the IRB was on exercise the crew were hailed by a catamaran from which a 13-year- old girl had been lost overboard. The IRB went to the scene and found the girl in the surf at Spittal point opposite Berwick pier. Owing to the strong current the IRB was unable to pick up the girl at the first attempt.

A member of the crew jumped therefore overboard and supported her until she could be taken aboard.

The IRB returned to her station at 4.52.

Kinghorn, Fife - At 3 p.m. on 14th September, 1968, while IRB crew members were watching the return leg of the Burntisland to Kirkcaldy stern chase race, one of the dinghies capsized. The IRB was launched immediately in a strong north easterly wind, gusting to gale force, and a rough sea. It was two hours before high water. She rescued the dinghy's crew of two and took them ashore.

Minutes later a second dinghy capsized and the IRB went to her assistance, but a nearby cabin cruiser rescued her crew. Because of the weather conditions, the IRB pat- rolled the area and later the cabin cruiser, which had assisted the second dinghy, herself capsized. The IRB rescued four people, returning to her station at 5 o'clock.

South Queensferry, West Lothian - at 4.30 p.m. on 14th September, 1968, the coastguard informed the honor- ary secretary that a sailing dinghy was in difficulties off the harbour.

The IRB was launched immediately in a moderate easterly wind and a rough sea. The tide was flooding.She made for the dinghy which, however, capsized before she arrived, throwing the crew of two in the water. The two men were taken aboard the IRB which towed the dinghy to Hawes pier. The IRB returned to her station at 5.45.

Silloth, Cumberland - At 12.45 p.m.

on 8th September, 1968, a member of the public told the police that a boy had been cut off by the tide and was clinging to a pole marking the end of a groyne about one and a quarter miles north east of the IRB station. The IRB was launched at 12.53 in a light south westerly breeze and a slight sea. It was one hour before high water. The boy was taken to the beach where the police took charge. The IRB returned to her station at 1.10.

No. 3 Life-boat Area Skegness, Lincolnshire - At 4.20 p.m.

on 7th September, 1968, the coast- guard reported that a small boat had grounded about one and a half miles north of the station. The IRB was launched at 4.25. It was two and a half hours after low water. The IRB found the speedboat Illya sub- merged on a sandbank. The IRB crew partially bailed her out and took the crew of two aboard. The Illya was towed ashore and the two men landed. The IRB returned to her station at 5.10.

Bridlington, Yorkshire - At 2.58 p.m.

on 9th September, 1968, the coast- guard informed the coxswain that a dinghy had capsized off Skipsea. The IRB was launched at 3.8 in a light south easterly breeze and a choppy sea. It was two hours after low water.

She made for Skipsea and carried out a search of the area. The dinghy was sighted at 3.26 and the IRB found that a small boat had already taken off one man. The IRB embarked the second man who was in the water and towed the dinghy ashore. She returned to her station at 4.23.

Whitby, Yorkshire - At 3.40 p.m.

on 9th September, 1968, it was learnt that two people had been cut off by the tide in Yellow Sands Bight. The IRB was launched at 3.43 in a moderate south easterly wind and a smooth sea. It was three and a half hours after low water. A young man and a girl were taken aboard the IRB and landed at Whitby harbour.

The IRB returned to her station at 4.15.

Redcar, Yorkshire - At 6 a.m. on 12th September, 1968, the coast- guard reported that a red flare had been seen to the north east of the boathouse. The IRB was launched at 6.10. It was one and a half hours before high water. Despite the poor visibility she found the crew of the fishing vessel Castle Eden who had abandoned ship 15 hours previously.

It transpired that a fire had developed in the vessel and the wireless was put out of action almost immediately.

The crew of four had tried to put out the fire, without success, and had to take to the inflatable rubber raft.

They were all very wet and cold. The IRB landed them at the boathouse, and then returned to her station at 7 o'clock.

No. 4 Life-boat Area West Mersea, Essex - At 3.25 p.m.

on 2nd September, 1968, it was learnt that a catamaran had capsized near Stone. Ths IRB was launched at 3.27 in a fresh to strong south westerly breeze and a rough sea. It was five and a half hours before high water. The catamaran was found on the Hurslet Spit bank. The crew had righted her and were replacing the gear. The two men were taken aboard the IRB, which towed the catamaran to Stone, returning to her station at 4.15.

Southend-on-Sea, Essex - At 6.30 p.m on 28th September, 1968, the IRB crew were informed that flares had been seen three miles south of the pier. The IRB was launched at 6.45 in a south westerly gale with a rough sea. The tide was ebbing. The IRB found a 15-foot speedboat, with a crew of four, waterlogged with her engine broken down. The IRB took off three people while the fourth stayed on board to continue bailing.

The speedboat was then taken in tow and beached. After landing the four people, the IRB returned to her station, arriving at 9.30.

No. 5 Life-boat Area Lymington, Hampshire - At 6.9 p.m.

on 9th September, 1968, the coast- guard reported that a sailing dinghy had capsized in the Solent off the Pennington boom. The IRB was launched at 6.13 in a moderate to fresh east south easterly wind and a corresponding sea. It was one hour before low water. She found the dinghy, with one man clinging to her, off Oxey lake. The man was taken aboard the IRB and the dinghy towed to Lymington. The IRB returned to her station at 7.15. A donation was given to the R.N.L.I.

At 4.29 p.m. on 29th September, 1968, information was received that a sailing dinghy had capsized two miles off Dymchurch. The IRB was launched at 4.53 in a fresh westerly wind with a moderate sea. It was high water. The IRB found the water- logged dinghy, with a crew of two, and took her in tow to the shore.

She returned to her station at 5.40.

At 11.50 a.m. on 22nd September, 1968, a message was received that a catamaran was in difficulties threemiles east by south of the station.

The IRB was launched at 11.53. It was high water. The IRB made for the catamaran and found that her mast was broken and one of her hulls was waterlogged. The crew of three were also having difficulty with the rigging. The IRB towed the catamaran to Stone and then returned to her station, arriving at 12.43 p.m.

Shoreham Harbour, Sussex - At 9.55 a.m. on 17th September, 1968, the coastguard told the honorary secretary that two children were calling for help off Penhill Road, Lancing. The IRB was launched at 10.1 in a moderate north easterly wind and a corresponding sea. It was two hours after high water. The children were found in a dinghy which was being blown out to sea.

They were frightened and shivering with cold. Another dinghy had just arrived on the scene but was unable to make any headway towards the shore against the headwind and ebb tide. The IRB towed this dinghy ashore and then returned to the first dinghy. The children were taken aboard the IRB which then towed the dinghy into Shoreham harbour. She returned to her station at 11.5.

At 12.10 p.m. on 22nd September, 1968, the coastguard reported that a small motor boat was signalling for assistance four miles south south east of the station. The IRB was launched at 12.12 in a strong west south westerly wind with a rough sea.

It was high water. The IRB came up with the cabin cruiser Jeanie with three men and a boy on board. Her engine's water pump had broken down and she was dragging her an- chor. The IRB took off two men and the boy and returned to her station at 1 o'clock. The third man decided to stay on board the cabin cruiser which was towed in by a motor launch. The owner made a donation to the Institution's funds.

At 4.42 p.m. on 21st September, 1968, the coastguard informed the life-boat's assistant mechanic that a boat had capsized inside the harbour.

The IRB was launched at 4.51 in a moderate south south westerly wind with a moderate sea. It was high water. The IRB came up with the sailing surf board Mini sail 1973 and found a man clinging to it. He was unable to swim and was not wearing a life-jacket. The IRB took the man on board and towed the craft ashore.

After the man had been put ashore the IRB returned to her station, arriving at 5.5.

At 12.5 p.m. on 29th September, 1968, it was learnt that a rubber dinghy with five skin divers on board had engine trouble 200 yards south east of the east breakwater. The IRB was launched at 12.20 in a strong westerly wind with a rough sea. The tide was flooding. The IRB found the dinghy, which had drifted further eastwards, and took off two men. The remaining three men stayed on board the dinghy which was taken in tow.

The IRB returned to her station at 12.58.

Whitstable, Kent - At 5.10 p.m. on 1st September, 1968, a member of the public told the honorary secre- tary that two dinghies appeared to be in difficulties off Long Rock at Swalecliffe. The IRB was returning from a previous service, and when she beached, a fresh crew embarked and made for Swalecliffe. There was a strong gusty south westerly wind and a steep breaking sea.

It was high water. The IRB found a small open motor boat with two men and two boys aboard about two miles off shore. The motor boat was escorted closer in shore and the IRB then searched for the second boat which was also found two miles off shore with two men and two boys on board. Her engine had broken down and she was drifting. The boys were taken aboard the IRB which towed the motor boat and her crew to Hampton pier. On the return passage to her station the crew saw an unoccupied dinghy adrift. The dinghy was taken in tow and the IRB returned to her station at 6.50. The owner of the dinghy, who made a donation to the Institution's funds, confirmed that no one was missing.

At 4.30 p.m. on 1st September, 1968, it was learnt that a boat had capsized about one and a half miles off shore in Tankerton Bay. The IRB was launched at 4.33 in a strong gusty south westerly wind and a steep breaking sea with a slight swell.

The tide was flooding. After a brief search she found the yacht and took off the three people. As it was not possible to tow the yacht she was anchored. The survivors were landed at Whitstable harbour, and the IRB returned to her station at 5.10.

Eastney, Hampshire - At 10.57 a.m.

on 22nd September, 1968, a member of the IRB crew saw a speedboat capsize 300 yards south of Gunner point. The IRB was launched at 11 o'clock in a fresh west south westerly wind with a choppy sea. The tide was flooding. The IRB found a man in the water who was taken aboard and landed at Gunner point.

The IRB returned to her station at 11.30.

At 5.28 p.m. on 2nd September, 1968, the coastguard reported that a speedboat was sinking at the entrance to Langstone harbour. The fast rescue/boarding boat 18-02 slipped her moorings at 5.29 in a fresh to strong south westerly wind and a moderate to rough sea. The tide was flooding. 18-02 made for the speed- boat and took off the sole crew mem- ber. The waterlogged speedboat was then towed to Gunnar point and beached. 75-02 returned to her station at 5.40.

At 5.48 p.m. on 2nd September, 1968, the coastguard informed the honorary secretary that a sailing dinghy was in difficulties on the west bank of the East Winner. The IRB was launched at 5.50 in a fresh south westerly wind and a choppy sea. The tide was flooding. The IRB took off a man and a woman and then passed a line to the third crew member.

Afterwards the dinghy was towed to the IRB station which was reached at 6.20.

Yarmouth, Isle of Wight - At 3.37 p.m. on 27th September, 1968, a passenger off the Lymington to Yarmouth ferry boat reported seeing a capsized sailing dinghy one mile north of Yarmouth. The IRB was launched at 3.40 in a fresh west south westerly breeze with a rough sea.

The tide was ebbing. The IRB rescued the dinghy's only crew mem- ber, returning to her station at 3.58.

Bembridge, Isle of Wight - At 11.2 a.m. on 2nd September, 1968, the coastguard told the honorary secre- tary that the motor yacht Hamsan had struck the East Bembridge Ledge.

A few minutes later he reported that a man, a woman and three children had taken to a rubber dinghy and were attempting to reach the shore.

The IRB was launched at 11.15 in a strong south westerly breeze and a rough sea. It was three hours after high water. The dinghy was towed ashore, and then the IRB went out to the yacht and brought another man to safety. The IRB returned to the yacht and inspected her with a view to refloating her on the flood tide. At 5 o'clock the IRB was relaunched and took the survivors back to the yacht. An IRB crew member was put aboard and the Hamsan was refloated. The IRB returned to her station at 6 o'clock.

No. 6 Life-boat Area Port Isaac, Cornwall - At 1.18 p.m.

on 2nd September, 1968, the coast- guard informed the honorary secre- tary that two men were in difficulties at Trebarwith. The IRB was launched at 1.20 in a light south westerly 584 breeze and a moderate sea. It was high water. One man was found in the water and taken aboard the IRB. A search was then made for the other man in conjunction with a helicopter, but without success. The IRB returned to her station and landed the survivor at 2 o'clock. She returned to Trebarwith and carried out a further intensive search again without success. She finally returned to her station at 3.27. It transpired that one man entered or slipped into the sea when endeavouring to rescue his dog. The second man went to his assistance but could not hold him and was subsequently drowned.

Newquay, Cornwall - At 4.14 p.m.

on 5th September, 1968, during a local sailing contest, a heavy squall caused many of the 78 dinghies to capsize and the nine rescue boats engaged for the championships were not sufficient to cope with the situa- tion. The IRB was launched immedi- ately in a moderate north easterly breeze and a rough sea. It was high water. She patrolled outside the gen- eral area of the meeting and picked up the crews of two dinghies. The four men were landed safely and their dinghies towed in by other rescue craft. The IRB returned to her station at 5.45.

Exmouth, Devon - At 11 a.m. on 1st September, 1968, the IRB was launched to stand by some canoes which were taking part in a race.

There was a strong south westerly wind and a moderate sea. It was high water. Within a few minutes of the start of the race a canoe was in difficulties in the squally conditions.

The IRB passed a line and towed her towards the shore. When they were within five yards of the shore a large curling wave swept both IRB and canoe right up on to the beach.

The IRB was relaunched, with the assistance of three life-guards, and went to the assistance of another canoe which had got into difficulties while trying to cross the Pole sands.

A third canoe was then seen to capsize, so the IRB left the one they were dealing with and went to her assistance, but the crew had righted her by the time she was reached. The IRB returned to the second canoe and towed her ashore, first of all standing by until all the remaining canoes were well up river in sheltered waters. The IRB reached her station at 1.15 p.m.

St. Ives, Cornwall - On 6th Septem- ber, 1968, the IRB was launched to a motor boat and speedboat. A full account of this service appears on page 551.

No. 7 Life-boat Area Pwllheli, Caernarvonshire - At 6.5 a.m. on 20th September, 1968, the coastguard informed the honorary secretary that two red flares had been sighted between Pwllheli Gimlet rock and Abersoch beach. The motor mechanic then reported that a yacht moored in Pwllheli harbour was firing red flares. The IRB was launched at 6.10 in a strong south westerly gale with torrential rain and a scudding sea. She went alongside the yacht Juliemar and found a man and a woman and two children in a very wet condition and extremely sea- sick. They were taken ashore, and the IRB returned to her station at 6.35 a.m. A donation was made to the Institution's funds.

Porthcawl, Glamorganshire - At 1.10 p.m. on 15th September, 1968, the coastguard reported that a dinghy with two men on board was in difficulties and shipping water off Trecco bay. The IRB was launched at 1.13 in a strong north easterly wind and a moderate sea. It was two hours after high water. On reaching the scene the IRB found the dinghy had sunk and a life-guard had swum out to the men. One of the survivors was on his surf float and the other was clinging to it. The IRB took the two men aboard, and returned to her station at 1.27. The life-guard swam back to the beach.

Mudeford, Hampshire - At 9.58 a.m.

on 23rd September, 1968, it was learnt that a sailing dinghy had capsized off Blackberry point. The IRB was launched at 10 o'clock in a fresh south westerly wind with a choppy sea. It was high water. Two people who were found clinging to the dinghy were taken on board the IRB. With the dinghy in tow, the IRB returned to her station at 10.20.

At 2.10 p.m. on 1st September, 1968, a member of the public informed an IRB crew member that a small sailing yacht was on the bar and her crew of two were waving for assistance. The IRB was launched at 2.12 in a strong south westerly wind and a moderate sea. The tide was flooding. The yacht Janmir was taken to the quay. After the yacht had been moored, the IRB returned to her station, arriving at 2.25.

No. 8 Life-boat Area Moelfre, Anglesey - At 6.25 p.m. on 1st September, 1968, the coastguard informed the honorary secretary that the motor boat Sheila was in diffi- culties three miles north north east of the life-boat station. The IRB was launched at 6.30 in a fresh south westerly wind and a moderate swell.

It was two hours after high water.

The IRB came up with the motor boat with three people on board and took her in tow to Moelfre beach. Her engine had failed and she was being carried out to sea. The IRB returned to her station at 7.25.

At 11.25 a.m. on 2nd September, 1968, while the crew of the life-boat were preparing for an exercise that afternoon, the second coxswain sighted a small rowing boat which had capsized about three and a half miles south of the boathouse. The IRB was already afloat and set out immediately in a moderate southwesterly wind and a choppy sea. It was low water. She found the rowing boat still capsized with the oars missing and the crew in the water.

The three men were taken aboard the IRB and the boat was towed to Benelech beach where the survivors were treated for shock. The IRB returned to her station at 12.45 p.m.

Llandudno, Caernarvonshire - At 3.50 p.m. on 9th September, 1968, the police informed the IRB crew that a rowing boat was drifting to- wards the Great Orme lighthouse and two people were signalling for assis- tance. The IRB was launched at 3.51 in a moderate south south easterly wind and a choppy sea. It was three hours after high water.

She made for the scene and found the rowing boat Sarah. The boat was towed to the slipway at Llandudno, and the IRB returned to her station at 4.45.

West Kirby, Cheshire - At 11 a.m. on 23rd September, 1968, the honorary secretary was told that the trimaran Queen of the Isles moored off West Kirby was flying a distress signal.

The IRB was launched at 11.30 in a westerly gale with heavy seas. It was high water. As the IRB was being launched, a message was received that a sailing dinghy with a crew of two had capsized. The IRB made for the dinghy first and brought two men ashore. She then went to the trimaran and brought ashore two adults and two children. The IRB returned to her station at 12.15 p.m.

Abersoch, Caernarvonshire - At 12.25 p.m. on 23rd September, 1968, the coastguard reported that a dinghy was in difficulties south east of Benar head. The IRB was launched at 12.34 in a strong south westerly wind with a rough sea. It was high water. The IRB found the dinghy which had been dismasted and had capsized several times. The IRB took the owner and the dinghy ashore, returning to her station at 1.15. The 586 owner made a gift to the crew and to the Institution's funds.

See page 596 for other IRB services OCTOBER No. 1 Life-boat Area Barra Island, Outer Hebrides - At 11.45 p.m. on 30th October, 1968, the coastguard reported that a small motor boat with one man on board was overdue from South Uist. The life-boat R. A. Colby Cubbin No. 3 slipped her moorings at 12.25 a.m.

on 31st October in a strong north easterly breeze with a rough sea. The tide was flooding. After a search the man was found on Fiary island. His boat had sunk. The life-boat took the man on board, returning to her station at 9 o'clock.

No. 3 Life-boat Area Tynemouth, Northumberland - At 10.20 a.m. on 13th October, 1968, the coastguard told the honorary secretary that a small boat had fired red flares two miles off the harbour.

At 10.39 the life-boat Tynesider was launched in a strong west south westerly wind with a choppy sea. The tide was ebbing. The life-boat came up with the motor boat Try adrift with four people on board. The four were taken on board the life-boat which then took the motor boat in tow to North Shields. After the rescued people had been put back on board the motor boat, the life-boat returned to her station, arriving at 12.30p.m.

At 9.20 p.m. on 5th October, 1968, the coastguard reported that a small boat was firing red flares two miles from the lookout. Ten minutes later the life-boat Tynesider was launched in a calm sea and an ebbing tide. At 9.55 she found the motor boat Merlin with a crew of three, one mile from Tyne piers. Her engine had broken down. The life-boat took her in tow to safe moorings on the Tyne, and returned to her station at 10.55.

CuIIercoats, Northumberland - At 1.33 p.m. on 12th October, 1968, a member of the crew saw a small boat fire a flare one and a half miles north east of the Tynemouth coastguard lookout. The life-boat Sir James Knott was launched at 1.50 in a south westerly gale with a moderate sea. It was low water. The life-boat found the cabin cruiser Rothsay, with four people on board, two miles east of CuIIercoats bay. The cabin cruiser - it had engine trouble - was taken in tow to Albert Edward dock. As the life-boat was leaving the dock she saw the fishing boat Tina with two adults and four children on board signalling for help. The life-boat went alongside the Tina, which had engine trouble, and took her in tow to the dock. The life-boat re- turned to her station at 4.5.

No. 4 Life-boat Area Plumber, Yorkshire - At 12.25 a.m.

on 13th October, 1968, it was learnt that a small boat with five men aboard was ashore near Patrington Haven. As the tide was ebbing the small boat was in no immediate danger. The boarding boat was launched with some difficulty and the life-boat The Princess Royal (Civil Service No. 7), with the boarding boat in tow, slipped her moorings at 2 o'clock. There was a strong south westerly wind gusting to gale force with a rough sea. It was one hour before low water. The life-boat made for the scene but was unable to find the casualty, which was then asked to fire a flare.

Because of her position it was decided that the life-boat should lay off and the boarding boat be used to transfer the men. The boarding boat was manned by the bowman and another member of the crew. As the boarding boat was about to leave, the heavy swell swept the boarding boat against the life-boat and the board- ing boat's outboard engine support brackets sheared, causing the engine to fall into the sea. Fortunately the engine was quickly recovered by means of a safety rope. Now that the engine could not be used, the board- ing boat had to be rowed three- quarters of a mile to the casualty.

This was found to be the barge Reise working with the dredger Queen of Holland. As the five men did not want to leave the barge the boarding boat returned to the life-boat.

Worsening weather conditions, how- ever, caused the master of the Queen of Holland to advise the five men to leave. The boarding boat returned to the barge and the five men were transferred to the life-boat. The life- boat, which took the five men to the dredger, returned to her station at 10.40.

No. 5 Life-boat Area Hastings, Sussex - At 12.43 p.m. on 10th October, 1968, the honorary secretary was informed that six men aboard the dredger William All Press were in danger and the assistance of the life-boat was requested to take them off. At 12.57 the life-boat Fairlight was launched in a strong south westerly breeze with a rough sea. The tide was flooding. The life- boat came up with the dredger two miles west of the life-boat station.

The six men were taken aboard, the life-boat returning to her station at 1.45.

Ramsgate, Kent - On llth October, 1968, the life-boat Michael and Lily Davis rescued four people from a yacht. A full report appears on page 550.

No. 6 Life-boat Area St. Marys, Scilly Islands - At 9.43 a.m. on 21st October, 1968, the honorary secretary learnt that the captain of the tanker Oscilla was in a coma and had to be brought ashore.

The life-boat Guy and Clare Hunter, with a doctor on board, was launched at 10.4. The tide was ebbing. The captain was embarked and the life- boat returned to her station at 12.35p.m. The captain's life was saved by the life-boat.

No. 7 Life-boat Area Fishguard, Pembrokeshire - At 2.17 p.m. on 15th October, 1968, the coastguard informed the honorary secretary that red flares had been seen from a yacht three miles north of the north breakwater. The life-boat Howard Marryat was launched at 2.30 in a strong to gale force west south westerly wind and a rough sea.

It was two hours after high water.

The life-boat found the yacht Natuna four miles north east of Divers head.

The Natuna had been on passage from Holyhead to Southampton when her engine failed off Fishguard.

She was unable to make any head- way under sail and was being driven in an easterly direction. The life-boat took the yacht in tow to Fishguard, returning to her station at 4.50.

Barmouth, Merionethshire - At 2.3 a.m. on 5th October, 1968, the coast- guard reported that the ketch Garland Stone was aground on the causeway north of Barmouth and was leaking badly. The life-boat The Chieftain was launched at 2.19. It was low water. The life-boat came up with the ketch at 4.31. A line was passed and she was refloated. The life-boat slipped the tow and a member of the life-boat crew went aboard the ketch to assist in navigation. She entered the harbour escorted by the life-boat, which returned to her station at 9.12.

Barry Dock, Glamorganshire - At 10.5 a.m. on 13th October, 1968, the coastguard reported that a flare had been seen off Sully island. The life- boat Rachel and Mary Evans was launched at 10.15 in a south westerly gale with a rough sea. The tide was ebbing. The life-boat found the yacht Zingari with her sails torn and her engine broken down. The yacht, which had a crew of four on board, was taken in tow to the yacht club, and the life-boat returned to her station at 11.5.

Mumbles, Glamorganshire - On 3rd October, 1968, the reserve life-boat Cunard, on temporary duty at the station, went to the aid of the dredger Steepholm. A full account of this service appears on page 546.

Swanage, Dorset - At 4.38 p.m. on 26th October, 1968, it was learnt that a sailing dinghy with five people on board had capsized in the Peveril Ledge tide race. The life-boat R.L.P.

was launched at 4.47. The tide was ebbing. The life-boat found that the dinghy had been righted and two of the five people had managed to regain the boat. The dinghy, however, was being filled again by the choppy seas and the five survivors - they were cold and exhausted - were taken on board the life-boat, where they were wrapped in blankets. The bowman was put aboard the dinghy to bail her out while the life-boat took her in tow. The life-boat returned to her station at 5.25 p.m. The five made a donation to the Institution's funds.

No. 10 Life-boat Area Fenit, Co. Kerry - At 11.10 p.m. on 21st October, 1968, the honorary secretary was informed that a fishing boat was ashore at Waherees. The life-boat Hilton Briggs slipped her moorings at 11.45. It was low water.

By means of a small dinghy, which the life-boat had taken with her, two members of the crew boarded the fishing boat Ocean Star at 1.30 a.m.

Lines were taken to the fishing boat but it was decided not to take her in tow. The fishing boat's crew were taken on board the life-boat, and she returned to her station at 4.15 a.m. The Ocean Star became a total wreck.

See page 595 for other life-boat launches IRB LAUNCHES Rescues by IRBs in October were carried out by the following stations: No. 2 Life-boat Area Barrow, Lancashire - At 11.24 a.m.

on 6th October, 1968, the motor mechanic heard that a man was in the water between Walney island and Sheep island. The IRB was launched at 11.30. The tide was flooding. The IRB found the man stranded on a sand bank with the water up to his chin. He was taken on board and landed at Walney island. The IRB returned to her station at 11.50.

No. 3 Life-boat Area Filey, Yorkshire - At 12.20 p.m. on 13th October, 1968, the coastguard learnt that a yacht had capsized in Filey bay. The IRB was launched at 12.25 in a gentle gusting to fresh west south westerly wind with a moderate sea. The tide was ebbing.

The life-boat Robert and Dorothy Hardcastle was launched at 12.45.

The IRB found the yacht with a crew of two four miles south east of the station. Two people were embarked and the yacht taken in tow. As the men were suffering from exposure they were transferred to the life-boat. The IRB returned to her station at 1.25, and the life-boat at 1.50.

No. 5 Life-boat Area Whitstable, Kent - At 8.52 p.m. on 22nd October, 1968, the coastguard reported that flares had been seen off Shellness on the south east corner of the Isle of Sheppey. The IRB was launched at 8.57. It was two hours after low water. She carried out a search of the area and maintained radio communication with the coast- guard mobile search party on shore.

The IRB found a small speedboat with four men on board. They were very cold and did not know where they were. The IRB towed the boat to Harty Ferry, returning to her station at 11.5.

Eastney, Hampshire - At 4.45 p.m.

on 2nd October, 1968, a member of the IRB crew saw a sailing dinghy capsize several times in Langstone harbour. The IRB was launched at 4.46 in a strong south westerly breeze with a choppy sea. The tide was flooding. The IRB found the sailing dinghy with her rigging damaged aground on Sinah sands. The dinghy's crew of two were taken on board the IRB. After towing in the dinghy the IRB returned to her station at 5.21.

A donation was made to the Institu- tion's funds.

Walmer, Kent - At noon on 20th October, 1968, the members of the IRB crew saw that the rescue boat of a local sailing club had broken down about three-quarters of a mile to the north east of the life-boat house. The IRB was launched immediately in a moderate south westerly wind and a corresponding sea. The 'tide was flooding. She came up with the rescue boat and took her in tow. The IRB returned to her station at 12.40.

Shoreham Harbour, Sussex - At 3.48 p.m. on 27th October, 1968, it was learnt that a dinghy was in difficulties about one and a half miles south west of Shoreham harbour.

The IRB was launched at 3.50 in a moderate to fresh south south westerly wind and a corresponding sea. It was high water. After a short search the IRB found the dismasted dinghy one mile west of the harbour.

The crew of two, who had previously been in the water, were taken aboard the IRB which made for Shoreham harbour with the dinghy in tow. The IRB returned to her station, being ready for service at 4.50.

No. 7 Life-boat Area Mudeford, Hampshire - At 2.36 p.m.

on 1st October, 1968, the IRB was launched following a report of flares being fired off Southbourne. There was a fresh south westerly wind with a moderate swell. The tide was flooding. The IRB found the fishing boat Captain Jule with a fouled propeller. Her anchor rope had parted and she was drifting towards a beach strewn with concrete blocks.

The IRB passed her an anchor andwarp so that the amount of drift could be checked. The fishing boat's crew of two were embarked, and the IRB stood by to await the arrival of a shore boat. The IRB, having trans- ferred the fishing boat's crew to the shore boat, assisted in connecting a tow line to the casualty. After retrieving her gear the IRB returned to her station, reaching it at 3.55.

Porthcawl, Glamorganshire - On 3rd October, 1968, the IRB took part in a joint rescue of seven men from the dredger Steepholm. A full report appears on page 546.

Aberysrwyth, Cardiganshire - At 5.30 p.m. on 20th October, 1968, a member of the public informed the honorary secretary that a dinghy with four people on board was making very little head way off Castle rocks. The IRB was launched at 5.35. It was high water. The IRB took off two women and towed the dinghy with two men on board to the harbour. She returned to her station at 6.10.

No. 8 Life-boat Area Beaumaris, Anglesey - At 11.40 a.m.

on 16th October, 1968, it was learnt that a sailing dinghy with three people on board was in difficulties about one mile to the east of Beau- maris pier. She was being steadily driven out to sea. The IRB was launched immediately. She came up with the dinghy, which was on a training exercise from the Outdoor Activities Centre, and took off two girl students who said the dinghy had capsized several times. The helmsman stayed aboard the sailing dinghy to steer and bail her out on the way back. The IRB towed her to the slipway. She then made for a second sailing dinghy with three pupils from the centre on board which was making very little head- way. This dinghy was also towed to the slipway. The IRB returned to her station at 12.45 p.m.

See page 596 for other IRB launches 590 NOVEMBER No. 1 Life-boat Area Life-boat 70-002 on passage - At 10.50 a.m. on 7th November, 1968, while the Grace Paterson Ritchie life-boat was on passage to Westray, the coastguard told the coxswain that the doctor on Rousay had requested the assistance of the life- boat to take a seriously ill patient from Rousay to Kirkwall. Course was altered at 11.52 and at 12.55 the life-boat berthed at Rousay. There was a strong south easterly wind with a moderate sea. It was shortly after high water. At 1.30 the sick man was embarked, accompanied by a nurse, and at 2.45 he was landed at Kirkwall where an ambulance was waiting to take him to hospital.

No. 3 Life-boat Area Bridlington, Yorkshire - At 10.52 a.m.

on 5th November, 1968, the coast- guard informed the honorary secre- tary that the coble Kate & Violet had broken down one mile east of the coastguard station. At 11.15 the life-boat William Henry and Mary King was launched. The tide was ebbing. At 11.32 the life-boat came up with the coble with 14 people on board and took her in tow to Brid- lington, returning to her station at 2.30.

Redcar, Yorkshire - At 4.40 p.m. on 24th November, 1968, it was learnt that the coble Valhalla had lost her propeller. The life-boat Aguila Wren was launched at 5.5 in a fresh south westerly wind with a moderate sea.

The tide was flooding. The life-boat came up with the coble three miles east of the Saltscar buoy. The Valhalla, with a crew of two, was taken in tow. The life-boat returned to her station at 6.45 p.m.

No. 5 Life-boat Area Bembridge, Isle of Wight- At 6.40p.m.

on 21st November, 1968, informa-tion was received that flares had been seen south east of Nomansland fort near the Warner Shoal. The life-boat Jesse Lumb was launched at 7.5. The tide was flooding. The life-boat found the cabin cruiser Tangerine with three people aboard, east of Nettlestone point. Her propeller had been fouled. The Tangerine was taken in tow to moorings at Under Tyne, the life-boat returning to her station at 8.22.

Ramsgate, Kent - At 7.31 a.m. on 3rd November, 1968, the coastguard reported that flares had been seen in Sandwich bay at the entrance to the river Stour. The life-boat Michael and Lily Davis slipped her moorings at 7.40 in a southerly gale with a rough sea. The tide was flooding. The life-boat found the motor boat Jim, with two people on board, aground two and a quarter miles north west of Ramsgate. She was taken in tow to Ramsgate. The life-boat returned to her station at 9.50.

No. 6 Life-boat Area The Lizard-Cadgwith, Cornwall - At 5.52 a.m. on 9th November, 1968, it was learnt that flares had been sighted three miles south east of the Lizard. The life-boat The Duke of Cornwall (Civil Service No. 33) was launched at 6.18. The tide was flooding. The life-boat found the barge Queen with two people on board. The barge was on passage from the Scillies to Falmouth when her engine seized. The life-boattook the barge in tow to Falmouth and returned to her station at 2 p.m.

The Coverack life-boat William Tay- lor of Oldham was launched at 6 a.m.

on 9th November and returned to her station at 8.20, when it was known her services were no longer required.

At 10.14 a.m. on 10th November, 1968, the coastguard informed the honorary secretary that the Nonsuch, a 65-ton replica of a 17th-century Hudson Bay Company trading vessel, with a crew of seven, was in diffi- culties in heavy seas south west of the Lizard. The trawler Jill was escorting the vessel. The life-boat The Duke of Cornwall (Civil Service No. 33) was launched at 10.40 in a south by east gale with a very rough sea. The German vessel Sundern was standing by the Nonsuch. The life-boat came up with the Nonsuch at 12.32 p.m. eight to 10 miles south west of the Lizard light. It was decided to take her in tow to Fal- mouth. Great difficulty was experi- enced in towing the Nonsuch and four lines parted during the opera- tion. One fouled the Nonsuch's propeller. The life-boat towed the Nonsuch as far as Blackhead, using the anchor wire, and here it was decided to hand the tow over to the tug Warrior. The life-boat escorted the tug Warrior, trawler Jill, and Nonsuch into Falmouth which was reached at 9.10. The owners of the Nonsuch made a gift to the life-boat crew.

Clovelly, Devon - At 8.35 p.m. on 23rd November, 1968, the deck watch of life-boat 70-007 informed the staff coxswain that cries for help were coming from the beach to the east of Clovelly. The searchlight was switched on and the IRB carried aboard the life-boat Charles H.

Barrett (Civil Service No. 35) was launched at 8.40. There was a fresh breeze from the south west and a moderate sea. The tide was flooding.

Guided by the life-boat's search- light the IRB found two youths 592 stranded half-way up the cliff face.

They were taken aboard the IRB in a shocked condition and later transferred to the life-boat. After treatment they were landed at Clo- velly at 8.47. The IRB was restowed aboard the life-boat at 9 o'clock.

No. 7 Life-boat Area Poole, Dorset - At 3.45 a.m. on 17th November, 1968, it was learnt that flares had been seen near the training bank outside the harbour.

The life-boat Bassett Green slipped her moorings at 4.5 in a fresh east north easterly wind with a rough sea.

The tide was flooding. The life-boat found the yacht Wind, with a crew of two, aground on the training bank.

The bowman went aboard to help the crew as the yacht was taking in water. The life-boat took the Wind in tow to Poole and returned to her station at 6 o'clock.

Barry Dock, Glamorganshire - At 4.2 p.m. on 27th November, 1968, the coastguard told the coxswain that a yacht was in difficulties close inshore in Font-y-Gary bay. The life-boat Arthur and Blanche Harris, on evaluation trials at the station, slipped her moorings at 4.15. The tide was ebbing. The life-boat found the yacht Tia Maria III with four people on board a quarter of a mile off shore. A line was passed and the yacht, which had engine trouble, was taken in tow to Barry. The life-boat returned to her station at 5.30.

Tenby, Pembrokeshire - On 14th November, 1968, the life-boat Henry Comber Brown was launched to the help of the motor vessel Mante, for which a special award was granted.

A full account of this service appears on page 552.

No. 8 Life-boat Area Hoylake, Cheshire - At 12.43 p.m. on 23rd November, 1968, while the life- boat Oldham IV was on exercise, a report was received from the coast- guard that a dinghy had capsized off Sandhay slipway. There was a fresh south westerly wind with a moderate sea. The tide was flooding.

The life-boat immediately made for the scene and picked up a man and his young son. The boy, who was suffering from exposure, was landed and taken to hospital. As the dinghy had been swept ashore, the life-boat retunred to her station at 1.40.

No. 10 Life-boat Area Arranmore, Donegal - At 1 p.m. on 27th November, 1968, the honorary secretary was informed that a trawler which had broken down was drifting towards the rocks east of Owey island. The life-boat W. M. Tilson slipped her moorings at 1.40 in a fresh north easterly wind with a choppy sea. The tide was flooding.

The life-boat took the trawler, with a crew of four on board, in tow to Burtonport, returning to her station at 6 o'clock. The trawler had been bought in France and was on passage to Killybegs when her engine failed.

Galway Bay - At 4.10 a.m. on 6th November, 1968, it was learnt that there was a seriously ill man on Inishmaan island. The life-boat Joseph Hiram Chadwick, with a doctor on board, slipped her moor- ings at 5.10. There was a strong east north easterly wind gusting to gale force with a rough sea. The tide was ebbing. The doctor went ashore.

Meanwhile, the life-boat went to the leeside of the island to embark the patient at 8.15. Because of low water at Rossaveel the life-boat took the sick man and doctor to Galway docks, reaching the docks at 11 o'clock. The life-boat left Galway at 12.30 p.m.

and returned to her station at 3.45.

The man's life was saved.

See page 595 for other life-boat launches IRB LAUNCHES Rescues by IRBs in November were carried out by the following stations: No. 2 Life-boat Area Helensburgh, Dunbartonshire - At 2.55 p.m. on 14th November, 1968, information was received that two sailing dinghies had capsized. One was assisted ashore by R.A.S.C.

personnel at Rhu Nangen. The IRB was launched at 3 o'clock in a moderate north easterly wind and a corresponding sea to assist the second dinghy. She found the sailing dinghy Quinque with one man aboard, her second crew member having been thrown out when she capsized. The IRB found him some distance from the dinghy and took him aboard.

After taking off the second survivor, the IRB then towed in the dinghy, returning to her station at 3.55.

No. 4 Life-boat Area Southend-on-Sea, Essex - At 1.19 p.m. on 3rd November, 1968, a report was received that a man was waving an oilskin from the cabin top of a small motor boat which was drifting out with the tide between Mulberry and Thorpe bay. The IRB was launched at 1.23 in a strong to gale force north westerly wind and a rough sea. It was two hours after high water. She found the motor boat, which had five men on board, two miles north east of the pier. The motor boat was towed to Thorpe bay. The IRB returned to her station at 2 o'clock.

Shoreham Harbour, Sussex - At 2.46 p.m. on 2nd November, 1968, the coastguard informed the second coxswain/mechanic that a canoe had capsized about half a mile south west of Shoreham harbour. The IRB was launched at 2.50 in a light north westerly breeze and a moderate swell.

It was five hours after high water.

A youth was found in the water clinging to the canoe, and after he had been taken aboard the IRB the canoe was taken in tow to Shoreham harbour. The IRB returned to her station at 3.14.

No. 5 Life-boat Area At 3.40 p.m. on 3rd November, 1968, the coastguard informed thesecond coxswain/mechanic that a motor boat appeared to be in difficulties off the harbour mouth.

The IRB was launched at 3.42 in a fresh north north westerly wind. It was nearly high water. The IRB found that the motor boat Gipsey Ski had drifted about half a mile further out. The crew of three were taken off and the motor boat taken in tow. The IRB returned to her station, arriving at 5.15.

No. 7 Life-boat Area Atlantic College, Glamorganshire - At 5.8 p.m. on 11th November, 1968, the coastguard reported that four men were marooned on the wreck of the dredger Steepholm on the Tusker Rock. The three rescue boats X7, X5 and X4 were launched at 5.12 in a light east south easterly wind with a slight sea. The tide was flooding.

Heavy surf was breaking at the scene of the wreck. X7 found that the four men had been stranded when their dinghy broke away. As they were in no immediate danger X7 went to look for the dinghy. X7 found the dinghy, and X4 took it to Ogmore beach three-quarters of a mile away.

X7 then went alongside the wreck and took off the four men. The crew had to pick the right moment to effect the rescue as the waves were 6-8 feet high at times. X7 landed the men at Ogmore while X4 salvaged the dinghy. X5 was used as a radio link with the shore. All three boats returned to their station at 6.56.

The secretary of the Institution sent letters of appreciation to the crew of IRB X7.

No. 8 Life-boat Area Lytham-St. Anne's, Lancashire - At 3 p.m. on 24th November, 1968, while the IRB was on exercise, two sailing dinghies were seen to capsize a quarter of a mile off shore. She picked up a man from one of the dinghies as he had lost his hold and was drifting away. She then went to the other dinghy and picked up the man who was clinging to her. Both men were landed at Lytham and the IRB returned to her station at 3.30.

See page 596 for other IRB services.