Lifeboat rescues drifting fishing vessel near Portland Bill
Vessel was safely towed to Weymouth Harbour
A fishing vessel drifting towards Chesil Beach was rescued by the Weymouth lifeboat, Ernest and Mabel, on Monday.
The 14.5-meter motor fishing vessel, located approximately 6.5 nautical miles west of Portland Bill, had experienced gearbox failure but faced no immediate danger to life.
Initially, the vessel issued a 'Pan Pan' distress signal and attempted to resolve the issue without success.
As the vessel continued to drift at a speed of 1.5-2 knots towards the coastline and received no assistance from other vessels, it escalated its request to HM Coastguard.
Responding to the Coastguard's request, the volunteer crew launched at 11:45 am and arrived at the scene by 12:30 pm.
The fishing vessel was assessed and subsequently taken under tow back to Weymouth Harbour.
It was secured safely alongside at 3:30 pm.
Ernest and Mabel then returned to the station, was refueled, and made ready for the next service by 4:12 pm.