Both the RNLI all weather and the inshore lifeboats were tasked to go to the aid of the fisherman, with the inshore launching at 11:26 am and the all weather two minutes later. The inshore lifeboat was first to arrive on the scene, and, having located the fishing boat, found the skipper desperately trying to head away from the shore. It soon became apparent to the crew of the lifeboat that he was making little headway and there was concern that his engine could be damaged and give up altogether.

The all weather lifeboat arrived on scene just a few minutes later and it was agreed between them that, because of the sea conditions and the fact that the fishing boat had limited power, she should be towed back to harbour. Having secured the tow rope the slow and uncomfortable tow back to Falmouth began. The all weather lifeboat commenced the tow with the inshore holding station close to the fishing boat.

Before making the turn toward Falmouth, as the wind and sea were coming from the SSW, a lifeboat crew member was put aboard the fishing boat to trail a drogue which would avoid the fishing boat overrunning the tow rope in the heavy following seas.

Once the tow had reached the calmer waters of the harbour the inshore lifeboat took over the tow and landed her at Grove Place Dinghy Park where the boat could dry out on the slipway and allow the owner to get at and free his propeller.

Notes to editors
• The volunteer lifeboat crew for this mission in the all weather lifeboat were: Mark Pollard (Coxswain); David Proud; Jonathan Hackwell; Luke Wills; Claire Angove; Neil Capper and Adam West.

• In the inshore lifeboat were: Dave Nicoll; Andy Jenkin and Tom Bird.