Lifeboat launched to 93-year-old vessel with engine failure

Newhaven's Severn Class lifeboat was launched on Saturday (January 16) at to assist a 43ft ketch which had experienced engine failure.
By The Newsroom
Published 18th Jan 2016, 07:44 BST
Updated 18th Jan 2016, 07:49 BST

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Birling Gap Safety Boat Open Day. April 9th 2012 E15145N The Newhaven Lifeboat returns to base after exercise with Coastguard helicopter is called off. SUS-150113-100140001Birling Gap Safety Boat Open Day. April 9th 2012 E15145N The Newhaven Lifeboat returns to base after exercise with Coastguard helicopter is called off. SUS-150113-100140001
Birling Gap Safety Boat Open Day. April 9th 2012 E15145N The Newhaven Lifeboat returns to base after exercise with Coastguard helicopter is called off. SUS-150113-100140001

The historic ketch, which is 93 years old and weighs in at over 30 tonnes, had experienced engine failure approximately half a mile south west of Newhaven.

Smoke was spotted in the engine compartment, so the engine was immediately shut down. Both crew on board were uninjured.

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The lifeboat was soon alongside the casualty vessel and a crew member was put on board to check that there was no risk of fire or water ingress before a tow was established.

Once the lifeboat crew member confirmed that the vessel was safe, a tow was established and the historic vessel was towed into Newhaven and safely moored alongside.

The ketch’s crew thanked Newhaven lifeboat for their assistance. Newhaven lifeboat was again ready for service at 6:35pm.

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