Service Call 12
9th June @ 15:41 AWB launched at the request of UK Coastguard to a Dutch Barge with engine failure. Communication between the Coastguard and the casualty were very poor and an accurate position was difficult to obtain. A Coastguard spotter plane was in the area and after a quick search, spotted the casualty and were able to give the Coastguard operations room an accurate position.
The AWB made its way to the position given (NE of the Thanet Offshore Windfarm), but found nothing in the area. The AWB called the casualty by VHF and were able to get an accurate heading for the casuaty from the onboard Direction Finder. On arriving on scene, the casualty was making way under its own power, hence not in the position originally reported. Having broken down twice, it was decided by the Coxswain to escort the casualty into Ramsgate.