Published: May 30, 2010
In photos: Yacht rescued after skipper makes 'mayday' distress call

This yacht was rescued by Burnham-On-Sea's lifeboats on Sunday evening (May 30th) after its skipper made a 'mayday' distress call in the Bristol Channel.

Burnham's two lifeboats were launched at 5.25pm to help the 58 year-old skipper after he got into difficulty in strong winds and heavy seas to the south west of Stert Island.

The 20ft yacht was being buffeted around in the stormy conditions and had to be towed to the safety of Burnham's Yacht Club, as pictured above.

Burnham Coastguards co-ordinated the rescue from the beach near Burnham's lighthouse, as pictured above.

The 58 year-old from Combwich, who asked not to be named, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: "The lifeboats did an excellent job."

RNLI Helmsman Glenn Cutter told Burnham-On-Sea.com: "He unfortunately missed the tide earlier in the day and elected to wait until the next incoming tide. It was unfortunate that the wind freshened throughout the day, making his chosen waiting position hazardous. He was properly equipped with all safety gear, and did the sensible thing in asking for assistance."

The same yacht sparked the launch of a lifeboat earlier in the day when a walker was concerned about the vessel.

The yacht passing Burnham's slipway on Sunday evening

Burnham's lifeboat crews with the yacht entering the River Brue

The yacht was moored at the yacht club as the eventful voyage came to an end

RELATED LINKS:

Lifeboats website for Burnham-On-Sea