Portishead's RNLI launch following motor cruiser engine failure

At around 4.04pm on Friday, November 24, the crew received a call from the Coastguard concerning the stranded vessel, which was believed to have suffered engine failure in the River Avon near Sea Mills.

The two people were rescued and the boat was towed to the old Wessex Water Pumping station in Shirehampton.

Posting on Facebook, a spokesperson from the Portishead RNLI team said: "Our 38th call out of the year for the Portishead RNLI volunteer crew was at 4.04pm.

"A call had come in from the Coastguard saying that two people on board a 34ft motor cruiser was believed to have suffered engine failure in the River Avon, near to Sea Mills.

"As the lifeboat crew arrived on scene, they checked to make sure the two people on board the stricken vessel were fit and well.

"They were then able to proceed and set up a tow to take the cruiser to the safety of the old Wessex Water Pumping station in Shirehampton.

"A few top tips for when you venture out on the water:

"Always tell someone when and where you are going and when you will be back. If you are overdue they can call for help for you.

"Always ensure you carry a means of calling for help, a VHF radio or fully charged mobile phone. BUT be aware, some areas of the Bristol Channel and River Avon do not have a signal.

"If you get in to trouble call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

"Always wear a lifejacket."

The RNLI crew work day in, day out to "save lives at sea."

The charity's website reads: "The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Powered primarily by kind donations, our search and rescue service has been saving lives for nearly 200 years.

"We are a charity founded upon and driven by our values of selflessness, courage, dependability and trustworthiness, with volunteers at our heart.

"Values shared by generations of supporters like you who have powered our lifesaving work through your kindness and generosity for almost 200 years."