T A Hicks Electrical

30/11/2022

31/10/2020

Shout 9 for 2020.
31st Oct 2020.
At 0510 the lifeboat was tasked to go to the assistance of a 34 foot yacht with one person onboard ,who had issued a Mayday 6nm SSW of the Islands.
Also tasked was R924 from newquay who remained overhead during the tow into the lee of the islands.
The yacht had been knocked down and overcome with heavy breaking seas,and with the severe gale force winds had no control of the vessel to make headway.
Once on scene the lifeboat assessed the options and after discussions over the VHF with the sailor ,the best way to get him to safety was to tow the yacht into St Marys.
After several attempts to get close to the yacht as it was being blown sideways in force 9 winds ,coupled with waves flattening the yacht on her side , the tow was passed and successfully secured.

Once the lifeboat reached the shelter of the islands the tow was shortened to gain a little more control after which instructions were passed to release the tow line.
During this release the yacht managed to run over the tow and get a wrap in its stern gear , however some quick thinking and it was cut away and freed.
The yacht was then escorted into the safety of the harbour and with the help of the duchy staff secured alongside.
Crew: Pete Hicks , Chris Jenkins , Kevin Sherris , Paul Smith , Andrew Hicks , Truan Hicks.
AIS Track Credit Marine Traffic.

Part of the tow in is caught on video which for some reason has posted separate to this post.

The yachtsman must be commended for remaining calm and capable for what must of been a frightening experience.

15/01/2016

28/04/2013