At 23:58 (20 May) Falmouth Coastguard requested that both Falmouth Inshore and All Weather Lifeboat’s be launched following a report from the Fire Brigade of a Houseboat on Fire in Sailors Creek which was believed to have people onboard. The Coastguard Mobile, Fire Brigade, Police and Ambulance were also tasked to the incident.

The Inshore Lifeboat launched from her slipway at 00:02 and proceeded up the Penryn River to Sailors Creek arriving on scene at 00:06. It soon became apparent that the fire was on the beach and not onboard one of the boats as first reported. The Inshore Lifeboat crew identified an individual on the beach who was subsequently taken into custody by the police. The Inshore Lifeboat crew remained on scene providing illumination until released at 00:42.

The Inshore Lifeboat was back on its slipway by 00:56 where it was refuelled, rehoused and was ready for service by 01:12.

Although the fire was not onboard one of the boats, and appears to have been lit deliberately, it was of a considerable size and could be clearly seen from the Falmouth side of the River with significant flames and smoke so the initial emergency call was fully justified.

An Inshore Lifeboat Service