AWL 47-031 'Voluntary Worker' launched at 1210 hrs to the assistance of a 31-foot yacht ‘Alex Swan’ with one male person on board. The vessel had suffered engine failure and his mainsail was jammed making it non-functional. The casualty was approximately 1.2 miles south of the station, just to the east of the Mixon Rocks and quickly drifting towards them.
The ‘Voluntary Worker' arrived on scene at 1216 hrs and passed a towline. This was attached and by 1220 hrs a tow had commenced towards Littlehampton Harbour. The harbour entrance was reached at 1437 hrs and by 1450 hrs the ‘Alex Swan’ was safely berthed on its own moorings at Littlehampton Town Quay.
Due to tidal conditions at Selsey the ‘Voluntary Worker' remained in Littlehampton until 1603 hrs before departing to return to station, arriving back at 1648 hrs, rehousing immediately and was ready for service at 1730 hrs.
CREW: Martin Rudwick (Coxswain), Dave Lamdin (Acting Coxswain), Geoff Mellett (Mechanic), Willy Pledger, Max Gilligan, Colin Pullenger, Peter Delahunty, Phil Pitham
WIND: E F3-4 dec. SEA: Slight. WEATHER: Sunny.