Essex Police rescue two from yacht during storm off Clacton
- Roy Harris and Caroline Wilson were sailing their yacht, the Samphire, when a sudden storm caused it to take on water and damage its sail.
- Mr. Harris sent a PAN-PAN distress message, prompting a response from the Essex Police Marine Unit, who located the yacht four miles off Clacton.
- The rescue operation took over two hours due to rough seas, emphasizing the challenges faced during maritime emergencies.
On August 25, Roy Harris and Caroline Wilson encountered a sudden storm while sailing their yacht, the Samphire, back to the River Crouch from Kent. The storm caused significant issues, including the yacht taking on water and a torn sail rope. In a desperate attempt to seek help, Mr. Harris sent out a PAN-PAN distress message, which is used to indicate an urgent situation that is not life-threatening but requires assistance. The Essex Police Marine Unit, which was conducting Operation Wave-Breaker patrols, received the distress call. Sergeant Alex Southgate, PC John Perry, and special constable Scott McCabe were on the force rib Sentinel when they responded to the emergency. They coordinated with the Dover Coastguard Operations Centre to locate the distressed yacht, which was situated near an offshore windfarm, approximately four miles off Clacton. The rescue operation was complicated by the adverse weather conditions and the damage sustained by the yacht. What would typically be a 45-minute journey to reach the vessel took over two hours due to the rough seas. The police marine unit worked diligently to ensure the safety of the two individuals aboard the yacht. Ultimately, the successful rescue of Roy Harris and Caroline Wilson highlights the importance of quick communication and the effectiveness of emergency services in responding to maritime distress calls. Their experience serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of sailing in unpredictable weather conditions.