Tow in strong gale A VESSEL DRIFTING DANGEROUSLY close to land at Caldrine Bay was reported to HM Coastguard on the afternoon ofJanuary 10. The Coastguard informed the honorary secretary of Campbeltown lifeboat station at 1300. Of the several vessels in the vicinity, one was attempting to tow the casualty to safety.

At 1315 it was reported that the tow line had parted and that the lifeboat was required, so, at 1327, the 52' Barnett City of Glasgow II set out in a west north west strong gale with a high se.a and poor visibility. It was two hours after low water.

City of Glasgow II reached the casualty, cargo vessel Gold of Rochester, at 1600 and put a tow line on her.

Because of the prevailing sea conditions, however, the tow was very slow and difficult. Consequently it was decided totake Gold to the nearest safe anchorage and hand over the tow to a suitable vessel. The coaster was taken to Dunaverty Bay, anchored and her crew of five taken on board the lifeboat.

City of Glasgow II arrived back in Campbeltown with the five survivors at 2120..