Running into danger ON THE AFTERNOON of Friday September 11, 1981, the 26ft yacht Kerry left Douglas, Isle of Man, bound for Glasson Dock, Lancaster, crewed by two men.

Although the weather and visibility were good, there was a fresh to strong breeze, force 5 to 6, blowing from the south west and the sea was rough andone of the crew became badly affected by sea sickness. The yacht's owner tried to start the boat's engine but could not do so.

At 1927 Kerry called Ramsey Coastguard on VHP Channel 16 and was given a course to sail for Douglas, but as she approached land it became clear that her single-handed skipper would be running into difficulties and would need help. At 2015, when the yacht was some three or four miles off Douglas, Ramsey Coastguard telephoned the honorary secretary of Douglas lifeboat station, and at 2034 the 46ft 9in Watson R. A.

Colby Cubbin No. 1 launched on service under the command of Coxswain Robert J. Corran.

The lifeboat came up with Kerry, still under sail, at 2130 and with some difficulty because of the considerable movement of the two boats in the swell, Crew Member Steven Unsworth boarded the yacht to help. He lowered the sails, a tow line was passed and the yacht was taken to Laxey, where a doctor was waiting. The lifeboat returned to Douglas and was once again housed and ready for service at 2300.

For this service a letter of appreciation signed by Cdr Bruce Cairns, chief of operations, was sent to Crew Member Steven Unsworth..