GROUNDED CREW A red flare sighted in the vicinity of the Bernbridge Ledge buoy on 14th June, 1971, led to the Bembridge, Isle of Wight, life-boat the Jack Shayler and the Lees being launched at 11.40 p.m.

in an east north easterly gale with a rough sea.

Eight minutes later the life-boat found the Royal Marine Landing Craft L.136, with three marines on board, aground on the ledge. Those on board were attempting to make shore.

The life-boat made several unsuccessful attempts to get alongside, but eventually a towline was floated down to the landing craft and made fast. She then slewed the casualty slowly round until she was in a position to be towed clear. At 1.25 a.m. on 15th June the life-boat towed the landing craft off the rocks.

First intentions were to tow the casualty to Rydc Sands in order to allow damage, if any, to be assessed there. However, owing to the strength and direction of the wind it was decided to make for Cowes and the landing craft's parent ship.

The tow was completed at 3.30 and it was decided to moor the life-boat there until weather conditions improved. The life-boat crew returned to Bcmbridge by road, arriving at 5 o'clock..