Selsey Lifeboat Station - Launches
4th October 2008
12-Metre Pilot Cutter “Rhiannon”
 |
 |
Selsey all weather lifeboat, Voluntary Worker launched at 12.37 to go to the aid of the 12 metre converted pilot boat in difficulties 15 miles south of Selsey Bill.
The “Rhiannon” called for help after fouling her propeller and starting to take water in the engine room. One of the two male persons on board was suffering badly from seasickness.
The lifeboat arrived on scene at 13.55 and transferred a crewmember to assist the skipper of the “Rhiannon” with attaching a towline and assess whether or not a salvage pump was required. After assessing the amount of ingress of water it was decided that it was not enough to warrant the risk involved in passing a pump in the rough sea conditions. The tow was fixed and a course set for Shoreham Harbour some 28 miles away. Shortly after the tow began the towline fairlead on the stern of the lifeboat failed under extreme load causing the towline to whip across the deck and bend the guardrails. A bridle was rigged and the tow continued at very slow speed to prevent the towline parting. At 18.45 when approximately half a mile from Shoreham Harbour entrance the tow was shortened and the harbour was entered. Shoreham inshore lifeboat had launched to assist with taking the casualty through the main ship lock. Once inside the harbour the main tow was dropped for the “Rhiannon” to proceed under her own power, somehow, however the tow fouled the rudders or propellers and quickly had to be cut and reattached with the assistance of the ILB. Once in the shelter of the harbour wall the casualty was brought alongside and taken into the main lock. Due to the rapidly falling tide the casualty was left with Shoreham ILB.
Voluntary Worker left the harbour at 19.30 to return to Selsey, arriving back at 21.30, rehousing straight away and was ready for service once more at 22.15.
CREW: W.Pledger (Coxswain), R.Archibald (2nd Coxswain), P.Pitham (Mechanic), M.Gilligan, P.Delahunty, W.Moir, P.King.
WIND: Southwest 9-10. SEA: Very rough. WEATHER: Cloud & rain.