Selsey all weather lifeboat Voluntary Worker launched at 2256 to assist the 32-foot yacht “Impulse” with one male crew on board in a position approx 2 miles southwest of the station.
The yacht had been observed from about 1400 this afternoon apparently making no headway and going around in circles contact had been attempted via VHF radio by both the lifeboat station and Solent Coastguards with no response. At approximately 2100 at the end of our evening training session at the station what appeared to be the same vessel was spotted in a similar position to earlier on and still circling, this information was passed to Solent Coastguard who managed to establish contact with the yacht. The skipper said he was fine and had left Burnham on Crouch on Saturday 21st March and not requiring assistance. Whilst being questioned he appeared to be tired and confused. At this time with a new gale warning being issued the Coastguards made a decision to launch a lifeboat to his assistance.
Voluntary Worker arrived on scene at 2310 and a tow was passed. Towing towards Chichester Harbour commenced at 2322 the harbour entrance was reached at 0023 26.03.09 and by 0056 the casualty was safely berthed alongside in Sparkes Marina.
At 0114 the lifeboat departed Sparkes Marina to return to station, arriving back at 0217 and rehousing straight away. The lifeboat was ready for service once more by 0250.
CREW: M.Rudwick (Coxswain), W.Pledger (2nd Coxswain), P.Pitham (Mechanic), J.Albery, W.Moir, P.King, A.Lee.
WIND: West 4-5. SEA: Slight. WEATHER: Clear night.