Selsey All weather lifeboat “Voluntary Worker” launched at 1030 to go to the assistance of a 38ft power boat with two persons on board with engine problems, suspected dirty fuel.
The lifeboat arrived on scene approximately 7.5 miles south of the station at 1110. When the lifeboat arrived on scene, the vessel was only able to make 5 to 6 knots.
Due to the weather conditions the decision was made to escort the vessel to a position 1 mile south of Littlehampton Harbour. The female passenger was unable to assist due to sea sickness, so a crewman was placed aboard the casualty and a tow line was passed and set using a towing bridle. The casualty vessel was then safely towed through the harbour entrance. The Littlehampton Harbour Board and Coastguard had made a mooring available and the casualty was placed alongside at 1215.
The lifeboat was released from the incident at 1230, but due to tidal conditions at Selsey it remained in Littlehampton Harbour until 1500. The lifeboat was then able to re-house at 1630 and was washed down, re-fuelled and ready for service by 1715.
CREW: R. Archibald (Coxswain), P. Pitham (Mechanic), P. Delahunty (acting 2nd Coxswain), M. Gilligan, C. Pullenger, W. Moir, G. Pearce.
WIND: South West 7. SEA: rough. WEATHER: Sun/ part cloud.