Easter egg gifts for RNLI crew after yacht rescue

RNLI launched their all-weather lifeboat from Newhaven to tow the yacht to shore

A yachtsman taking part in the Eastbourne to Cowes race has described the moment he and five others needed rescuing from rough seas – and rewarded their RNLI rescuers with Easter eggs.

The yacht lost its rudder two miles off Beachy Head in East Sussex in high winds on the afternoon of Easter Sunday.

Newhaven RNLI launched its all-weather lifeboat and towed the vessel back to harbour.

David, one of the crew members on the stricken yacht, said: "Seeing the lifeboat approaching was a huge relief to myself, and everyone onboard."

He said they knew they would all be safe.

"Watching the skill of the crew manoeuvring the lifeboat in rough seas, to get in a position to throw the tow line, was impressive," he added.

"When we reached safety, we gave the crew some Easter eggs we had onboard, as a small thank you for coming to our aid."

RNLI coxswain John Simcock and crew member Will Rowell were both on their first rescue mission.

The yacht lost its rudder two miles off Beachy Head

Mr Simcock said: "Naturally I had some initial nerves whilst heading to the lifeboat station.

"However, once launched, the training kicked in, and I felt confident with the task at hand, and confidence in the crew around me."

Mr Rowell said: "I was in awe of my fellow crew members skill and professionalism throughout the shout.

"It was an incredible feeling, being part of getting the casualty yacht and its crew to safety."

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