Another early call for the Swanage volunteers, as a dramatic rescue unfolded 1/2nm offshore just to the west of Anvil Point lighthouse.

Both boats were launched after a “Mayday” distress call was received by the UK coastguard from a lone fisherman on board a small fishing boat bound from Hayling to Weymouth. The boat was reported to have struck an object and was making water fast, the crew suggested he thought the boat was sinking. A passing yacht responded to the call at the same time that the lifeboat crew were alerted. The yacht headed for the reported position and found the fisherman in the water, supported by his lifejacket which undoubtedly paid a big part in saving his life. The yacht’s crew were unable to recover the casualty, but the all-weather lifeboat (ALB) was minutes away so the yacht made space for the ALB to approach. The casualty was quickly taken aboard the lifeboat and given a full assessment – he was cold but otherwise uninjured. An ambulance was arranged, and best speed was made for the ferry steps at Sandbanks where the relieved man was handed to paramedics.

Meanwhile, the inshore lifeboat (ILB) was searching the area of the incident for any hazards to shipping. Various small items were seen, but neither the fishing vessel nor the struck object were found.

Both lifeboats were back at Swanage just before 4.00am.