Four people stranded by Worthing Pier after motorboat breaks down

At 5.33pm on Bank Holiday Monday (May 25), the Littlehampton RNLI was called out to help.

An 18 foot motor cruiser with two adults, two children and a dog on board had faced engine problems and anchored around 100 metres off Worthing pier.

According to the RNLI, the cruiser had tried to get help from other boats in the area using their VHF radio, but had no response.

The driver then contacted HM Coastguard and waited for help, which came from the Littlehampton RNLI's lifeboat Renee Sherman and its crew.

Andy Harris, helmsman of the Renee Sherman, said: “Fortunately the sea conditions were very calm.

"The motor vessel had followed the correct procedures for requesting assistance and we were happy to ensure that the four persons and the dog were no worse for their extended time on the water.

"This was probably an early trip in their cruising season and they had undertaken an engine check in preparation. The unexpected still happens though and it’s important to be prepared with appropriate safety equipment should a problem arise including sunscreen and plenty of water.”

The four volunteer crew of the lifeboat arrived on the scene and, after making sure those on board were safe and well, towed the vessel back to Littlehampton.

By the time they arrived, the tide was too low to get into the harbour so both vessels waited half a mile offshore until the water was deep enough to navigate safely back in to the harbour around 10pm that evening.