Dramatic operation near wind farm prepares Skegness RNLI Lifeboat volunteers for emergencies
A dramatic rescue operation has been staged off the Skegness coast to prepare RNLI volunteers for possible emergencies.
Skegness Lifeboat was launched on Tuesday as part of a multi agency exercise at the Triton Knoll Wind Farm, approximately 32 miles off the coast.
The exercise involved the simulation of a vessel colliding with a wind turbine, resulting in a man overboard and a fuel leak.
For exercise purposes, Skegness Lifeboat was tasked to assist alongside the UK coastguard helicopter 'Rescue 912'.
A spokesman for Skegness RNLI said: "Exercises like this are essential for both our crews and the crews of the various wind farm vessels working off our coast.
"It was a great exercise working alongside our colleagues at Humber Coastguard, Rescue 912 and TKMCC.
On Easter Saturday, visitors to the beach got a second chance to see Skegness RNLI Lifeboat in action.
The crew had popped across to Wisbech to swap the boat for a relief lifeboat while their's is away for upgrades and a few repairs.
The RNLI depends on the generosity of the public to continue its service. Like other charities, fundraising has been impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Although there is currently no access to the lifeboat station for visitors due to restrictions, the doors are often open and donations of any kind will be gratefully accepted.