The RNLI have rescued two people after a yacht became trapped in treacherous conditions off the coast of Blackpool.

The lifeboat approaching the yacht. Picture: Lytham St Annes RNLI/Ben McGarry

The 33ft yacht got into trouble at 11:34 am last Friday (October 29), which led to a rescue effort by Lytham St Annes Lifeboat Station. The station’s All-weather Lifeboat, commanded by Coxswain Andrew McHaffie, was deployed to the incident.

The lifeboat arrived just in time, with the RNLI stating that even minutes of delay would have meant a “slim chance of survival” for those involved.

Rescued blackpool yacht
The yacht rescued off the Blackpool coast. Picture: Lytham St Annes RNLI/Ben McGarry

Mr Mchaffie said he knew the team needed to work quickly to save those on board the yacht, as it was rapidly approaching surf on the shore.

Through Mr McHaffie’s expert navigation, the boat was able to get close enough for fellow crew member Andy Hall to board the yacht. He was then able to connect the two vessels with a tow-line. The yacht was then towed to the marina at the Wyre Estuary in a rescue that took five hours.

One of the people aboard the yacht sustained minor injuries, however, the pair were otherwise unscathed.

For more news click here

Related articles