Selsey all weather lifeboat “Voluntary Worker” launched at 2243 to assist a 25-foot yacht “Sunbird” with two male crew aboard reported to have run aground and be taking in water in the vicinity of Selsey Bill.
At 2253 the lifeboat found the casualty still aground on the Mixon Rocks approximately 1.2 miles south of the station. Unable to get close to the vessel the assistance of the inshore lifeboat “Peter Cornish” was requested. The ILB arrived on scene at approximately 2310. An assessment of the ingress of water was made and found to be negligible so a towline was attached and the casualty was pulled into safe waters. The casualty was then handed over to the “Voluntary Worker” and the “Peter Cornish” was released to return to station. A crewman M.Gilligan was put aboard to assist the two crew of “Sunbird” who were shaken by their experience.
At 2340 a tow to Chichester Harbour was got underway, two hours later at 0140 the casualty was safely berthed in Sparkes Marina where she was met by Hayling Coastguards, who arranged a crane to lift the vessel from the water.
At 0225 the lifeboat departed Sparkes Marina to return to station, arriving back at 0315, rehousing at 0400 and was made ready for service once more at 0430.
CREW: M.Rudwick (Coxswain), D.Lamdin (2nd Coxswain), G.Mellett (Mechanic), M.Gilligan, C.Pullenger, I.Porter, P.Pitham.
WIND: Northeast 1-2. SEA: Calm. WEATHER: Clear night.