RNLI rescues three after boat sinks off Lundy

Lifeboat crews from Ilfracombe and Clovelly stations successfully rescued three individuals after their leisure craft began taking on water and sank three miles east of Lundy.

The incident occurred on Saturday, May 11 when Clovelly's lifeboat crew, out on an exercise, received a Mayday call.

A 25-foot pleasure boat was in distress, rapidly taking on water. 

By the time the inshore lifeboat Toby Rundle reached the scene, the crew of the sinking vessel had escaped into their tender and radioed for help.

The Ilfracombe-based trip boat, Wild Frontier, had already reached the three casualties, providing initial assistance.

Despite their efforts, the pleasure boat could not be saved and was lost to the sea. 

Clovelly's crew acted swiftly, placing one of their men aboard the tender to assist the casualties. 

At 1.30pm, Ilfracombe's all-weather lifeboat, the Barry and Peggy High Foundation, arrived and safely transferred the three individuals on board, transporting them to Ilfracombe harbour.

The Toby Rundle returned to its station at 2.15pm, greeted by a group of supporters, including RNLI trustee Lord Mark Sedwill and Vice President Sir Hugo Swire, who were visiting Clovelly.

“The rescue highlighted just how quickly things can go wrong out on the water,” said helm Neil Wonnacott. 

“Once the casualty vessel began taking on water, it sank very quickly. Luckily, those on board had remembered to bring their VHF radio when they boarded their tender. It’s important to ensure that you always have a means of calling for help.”