Engine broken down RED FLARES fired by a vessel about a mile south of Boddin Point, four miles south of the lifeboat station, were reported to the honorary secretary of Montrose by HM Coastguard at 1310 on Tuesday March 28.

There was a flooding tide, fair visibility and a strong breeze to near gale, force 6 to 7, blowing from the south east when at 1320 Montrose's 48ft 6in Solent lifeboat Lady MacRobert slipped her moorings and headed at fullspeed into a rough sea. She arrived alongside the casualty, the converted motor fishing vessel Kathmar with a crew of three aboard, at 1350. Kathmar had been on passage from the Tyne to Londonderry when her engine had broken down. A line was passed and secured and the lifeboat began the tow through the heavy swell back to Montrose.

Once the tow rope broke but it was replaced and the tow continued. At 1515 the lifeboat and her tow entered Montrose dock where Kathmar was left for repairs.

The lifeboat returned to her moorings at 1620 where she refuelled and again made ready for service..