Yacht crew rescued after getting tangled in creel lines

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A LIFEBOAT crew were called into action after a yacht became tangled in fishing gear.

Dunbar RNLI launched its all-weather lifeboat John Neville Taylor at 5.45pm last Thursday following reports of a yacht in difficulty two miles off Torness Power Station.

The vessel, with two adults on board, had become fouled in creel lines and was unable to make progress due to the obstruction.

Gary Fairbairn, Dunbar RNLI coxswain, said: "As we approached, it was clear the vessel was making no headway.

"Given the poor visibility and the hazards in the local area, I decided to take the casualty to Eyemouth, the nearest harbour."

Conditions at sea were described as misty and choppy.

RNLI volunteers launched into poor visibility to assess and assist the stranded vessel.

After evaluating the situation, Mr Fairbairn determined that towing was necessary.

Dunbar all weather lifeboat leaving Eyemouth harbour (Image: RNLI)

A crew member was transferred to the yacht to help prepare it for towing.

Mr Fairbairn praised the yacht’s crew for seeking help, saying: "The crew of the yacht did the right thing calling for assistance as they were at risk of drifting onto rocks or putting their lives at risk entering the water to untangle the tangled lines."

The yacht was safely towed to Eyemouth and arrived at the harbour around 8.30pm.

Eyemouth RNLI then took over and helped berth the vessel.

Mr Fairbairn also commended his team and Eyemouth RNLI, saying: "I want to congratulate my crew on the expert execution of the tow and thank you to Eyemouth Lifeboat for taking over the tow into Eyemouth Harbour."

The Dunbar lifeboat returned to station at 10.15pm, where it was refuelled and made ready for service once again.

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