Dogged determination Liverpool coastguards contacted Douglas lifeboat station at 0824 on 2 January 2000 to advise that they had received several calls reporting the sighting of a black dog marooned on St Mary's rocks, on which stands the Tower of Refuge, built by Sir William Hillary, founder of theRNLI.

As there were no other boats around. Douglas' lifeboat, Sir William Hillary, left the slipway and, clearing the harbour, set a direct course for Tower of Refuge. The dog was clearly visible on the western end of the rocks at the water's edge.

The inflatable X boat was launched and was rowed to the rock landing, watched by a very apprehensive large black Labrador. On leaving the inflatable the crew were welcomed by the dog, obviously glad of the company, even in the shape of fully clad lifeboat crew. An inspection revealed that there were no other dogs or persons within the Tower or on the rocks.

The Labrador was large and heavy and, while very friendly, viewed the means of transportation with apparent scepticism and was not impressed. The crew members, who if nothing else were resourceful, had brought chocolate bars with them which were offered as inducement. The dog got the idea in one, jumped into the boat, ate the bar and promptly jumped out the other side! The crew, viewing this loss of stores as a serious set back, now reconsidered their tactics and, again, tempted the dog into the inflatable. The next bar had no sooner crossed the dog's lips when he was severely sat on and secured.

The inflatable and dog were recovered on board and the lifeboat re-entered Douglas harbour at 0921. The boat was ready for service again at 0945..