SWANSEA COASTGUARD INFORMED OF HOLED MOTOR CRUISER

Swansea Coastguard were contacted at 8.00 p.m. on 15 july 2001 on VHF Channel 16 by the two crew of `Sorrento Lady’ a 35-foot Birchwood motor cruiser which had been holed and was taking water rapidly 1.4 nautical miles off the coast near Porthcawl.

The two people on board – a married couple on their way from Sharpness to Swansea - requested immediate assistance from the Coastguard as they then felt they were in danger of sinking. The Coastguard then requested the launch of the Porthcawl RNLI in-shore lifeboat and the Mumbles all-weather lifeboat as well as broadcasting a mayday relay into the area. One other vessel `Prime Time’ responded to that call but was stood down when the in-shore lifeboat reached the vessel in distress.

Lou Knill, Swansea Coastguard Watch Manager said, "The two people were taken on board the in-shore lifeboat and brought ashore to Swansea and the care of the Mumbles Coastguard Rescue Team. Presently the all weather lifeboat has taken the motor cruiser under tow and pumps have been placed on board in order to try and maintain her stability. She is being brought into Swansea where she may be beached for further investigation.