Search in surf A REPORT that Runswick Bay Yacht Club safety boat had capsized on the east side of the bay came to Staithes and Runswick lifeboat station from HM Coastguard at 1444 on Sunday June 21.

Although it was a fine day with only light variable winds, there was a heavy swell which was breaking inshore.

Members of the lifeboat crew were already at the boathouse and the Atlantic 21 rigid inflatable lifeboat was launched in four minutes manned by Helmsman Iain Baxter and Crew Members Sean Baxter and Martin Hopkinson.

The lifeboat reached the area of the casualty at 1500 and, going in throughthe heavy surf, saw the club boat being washed ashore. A little while later two men who had struggled to safety through the surf were also seen on the beach, but it was thought that there might be other people still in the water.

The lifeboat continued the search in the heavy surf, therefore, until the Coastguard mobile was able to confirm that there had only been the two crew in the club boat and no one else was missing.

The Atlantic 21 then returned to station and she was once again rehoused and ready for service at 1547.

For this service a letter signed by Cdr Bruce Cairns, chief of operations, expressing the Institution's appreciation to the lifeboat crew, was sent to-Mr J.

C. James, Staithes and Runswick station honorary secretary. Runswick Bay Yacht Club makes a considerable contribution to local branch funds each year..