ILB D533 ‘PETER CORNISH’ launched at 2033 hrs to assist the 24 foot yacht ‘Curved Air’ which had run aground on the Mixon Rocks approximately one mile south of the station with two persons on board (one male, one female).
The ILB arrived on scene and quickly connected a line to the bow and also the top of the mast which, when the tow was started, had the effect of heeling the casualty over and lessening her draught. This approach worked and by 2053 hrs the casualty was successfully refloated.
The crew of ‘Curved Air’ were severely shaken by their experience and the female had also been seasick most of the day since leaving Brighton Marina. The casualty had been in company with another yacht, the 35 foot ‘Andaxi II’, and both crews expressed doubts about entering Chichester Harbour in the dark therefore it was decided to launch the AWL 47-001 ‘CITY OF LONDON’ to escort both yachts into harbour.
Arriving on scene at the Looe Channel buoys at 2124 hrs the 2nd Coxswain Tony Delahunty, along with extra diesel fuel, was transferred by the ILB aboard ‘Andaxi II’. ILB crewman Colin Pullenger remained aboard ‘Curved Air’. At 2153 hrs the ILB was released to return to station arriving back at 2210 hrs and rehousing straight away.
Ready for service at 2230 hrs.
CREW: Richard Wiseman (Helmsman), Colin Pullenger, Peter Delahunty.
WIND: North West F3-4. SEA: Smooth. WEATHER: Clear moonlit night.