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RNLI save four people from sinking motorboat

Exmouth RNLI leapt into action at the weekend after a motorboat began to sink with four people onboard.

Crews were alerted to the rapidly sinking boat about half a mile off Budleigh Salterton shortly before 3pm. They originally thought the 18-foot boat had broken down, but within minutes a Mayday call for immediate help came in.

Inshore lifeboat, George Bearman crew volunteers stay on scene to watch over the sinking motorboat Credit: Exmouth RNLI

We realised we were on our way to a more serious scenario and once on scene, found four casualties in the water with the hull of their 18 foot motorboat sticking out of the water. Since only one casualty – a 13 year old child was wearing a lifejacket, time was of the essence.

– Coxswain Steve Hockings-Thompson

Once safely rescued from the water, the casualties, who had swallowed sea water, were taken to an awaiting ambulance at Exmouth Marina.

After returning to the scene, the volunteers established a tow line to the power boat and took the vessel to Belchers Slipway for recovery by the owner.

All-weather lifeboat Shannon class R and J Welburn launches on Exmouth Beach Credit: Exmouth RNLI