Six people were dramatically rescued after their boat started capsizing in the dead of night.
A helicopter and lifeboat were scrambled when the blue-and-white vessel ran aground.
The boat began taking on water and tipping at a dangerous angle – leaving those on board in real peril.
Five people were ferried to safety by rescue boat, while a sixth, recovering from major surgery, was winched off by helicopter.
Two lifeboat crew members had boarded the stricken vessel, but worsening conditions meant they also had to be airlifted out.
It happened on the River Bure near Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, around 10pm on Sunday (14 Sept), as reported by Need To Know.
A Hemsby Lifeboat spokesperson said: “We were tasked by Humber Coastguard to assist in the rescue of six people stranded on a vessel that had run aground and was listing heavily on the River Bure near Great Yarmouth.
“The situation was further complicated by the vessel taking on water and the presence of individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.
“Two crew members boarded the stricken vessel to prepare for evacuation, while the remaining crew utilised the Hemsby Rescue boat to transport five casualties to a safe mooring in two separate trips.
“There, they were met by members of the local Coastguard team and Ambulance Service for further care and assessment.
“Given the deteriorating condition of the vessel and the medical status of the sixth casualty – who was recovering from major surgery – the decision was made that a boat transfer was too hazardous.
“With a rescue helicopter already en route, our team repositioned to allow the helicopter crew safe access for a winch evacuation.
“As the vessel’s stability worsened, it was also deemed necessary to airlift our remaining two crew members from the casualty vessel.
“Once all casualties and crew were safely evacuated, Hemsby Broads Rescue returned to a safe mooring.
“This rescue was a true team effort.
“The crew of Hemsby pass on their sincere congratulations and thanks to all emergency services involved – Humber Coastguard, local Coastguard teams, the Ambulance Service, and the helicopter rescue crew – for their professionalism and dedication.
“This was a notable rescue of six people who, without swift and coordinated action, would have been in real peril.
“Thank you to everyone involved.”
