AWL 47-031 'Voluntary Worker' launched at 2210 hrs to assist a 24-foot yacht ‘Galloping Chaos’ aground and holed with 2 persons on board in a position on the East Winner Bank just outside Langstone Harbour.
Initially the crew were thinking that they would have to abandon their vessel. Hayling Lifeboat was launched and was quickly on scene. At 2223 hrs Solent Coastguard reported that the casualty had been refloated and was being escorted into Chichester Harbour by Hayling lifeboat but requested that the 'Voluntary Worker' continue en route to assist. At 2232 hrs Hayling Rescue also arrived alongside the casualty with two pumps. With 2.5 miles still to run to the casualty the 'Voluntary Worker' was released to return to station arriving back at 2319 hrs, rehousing straight away and being made ready for service at 2345 hrs. The casualty was later safely berthed in Sparkes Marina.
CREW: Martin Rudwick (Coxswain), Willy Pledger (2nd Coxswain), Geoff Mellett (Mechanic), Dave Lamdin (Acting Coxswain), Peter Delahunty, Phil Pitham, Sacha Borg.
WIND: NE F6. SEA: Slight. WEATHER: Clear night.