My husband and I had a rather unusual experience on 7 August. We were enjoying a really good break, staying at the RNLI’s college in Poole for 3 nights. (Your accommodation is excellent and the food delectable!) On our last morning we walked to the quay and decided to take a short boat trip.

As we neared Old Harry Rocks, the skipper of the Solent Scene cut the engine for a ‘scattering of the ashes’ ceremony by a family onboard. But as the engine restarted we heard a crunching and grinding noise. Yes, we were grounded!

We donned lifejackets and then the RNLI inshore lifeboat from Swanage sped round the point. This was followed by the all-weather lifeboats from both Swanage and Poole. The crews were so helpful and professional in taking off more than 30 of us, including one elderly gentleman in his wheelchair, all in good humour.

Our trip took 5 hours rather than 1, but it did provide my husband some excitement on his birthday! We walked back to the college and had a welcome cup of tea before collecting our car, surprised and relieved not to receive a parking fine.

We wish to say a big thank you to you all – hospitality, caterers,
administrators and of course the lifeboat volunteers.
Yours appreciatively

Jo and Jon Day

Hampshire