At 20:39 Falmouth Coastguard requested that both the Falmouth Inshore and All Weather Lifeboats be launched to assist the 14ft Open Boat Mabel with one person onboard which was reported to be in difficulties in Falmouth Bay while on passage from Falmouth to the Helford. The Falmouth Coastguard Mobile was also tasked to assist.

The Inshore Lifeboat launched from her slipway at 20:45 and headed out round Pendennis Point, the All Weather Lifeboat leaving its pontoon berth at 20:49. Having cleared the headland the inshore lifeboat crew could see a set of lights off Maenporth and arrived alongside the vessel at 20:52. In view of the adverse conditions the single occupant of the boat was transferred to the inshore lifeboat, while one of the lifeboat crew went aboard the Mabel to manage the tow.

At 20:57 the towline was established and the slow and bumpy journey back to Falmouth commenced, the all weather lifeboat being released to return to station once it was confirmed that no further assistance was required.

By 21:30 the inshore lifeboat with the Mabel in tow was entering the inner harbour, and by 21:46 the vessel had been moored at the lifeboat pontoon, and the casualty transferred ashore where members of the coastguard rescue team and the police met him.

The Inshore Lifeboat was back on its slipway by 21:55 where it was refuelled, and was ready for service by 22:15.

The occupant of the Mabel was given a stern talking to in respect to his decision to go to see in conditions that were well in excess of the boats capabilities while also been under the influence of alcohol. Hopefully he will have learned the errors of his ways.

An Inshore Lifeboat Service

 

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