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Drifting dredger rescued off Hayes Point

Thursday, 17 April 2025 15:05

By Gareth Joy X @lookoutwales2

RNLI Barry Dock

A dredger has been rescued after it drifted close to the shore near Sully.

The 55-tonne vessel sparked a emergency opepration on Wednesday when it lost power and ended up drifting a quarter of a mile off Hayes Point.

It was at risk of running aground because it was unable to drop anchor due to a hyradulics failure caused by the lack of power.

The Bristol Intercepter pilot was called out by the Coastguard to try and establish a tow, which it could not secure as the line repeatedly parted.

The RNLI's Shannon Class lifeboat from Barry Dock took over and managed to pull the dredger away.

A working tug based at Barry Dock was called out by the lifeboat crew to tow the dredger safely back to port.

The RNLI said both the dredger and the coastline were prevented from "potentially significant" environmental harm.

The rescue operation also marked the first shout for a coxswain for Dun Laoghaire who is providing cover at Barry Dock.

Andrew Sykes said: "This was certainly a first shout to remember. The crew performed brilliantly to secure a line and prevent the risk of an environmental incident."

"I'm pleased to have taken the helm for the first time as coxswain and to have had a successful outcome. It was a great example of teamwork, and I'm proud of how the crew handled it."

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