LIFEBOAT volunteers had to jump into action following reports of a yacht running aground on a sand bar.

A routine morning training exercise turned into a first service call for trainee Harwich RNLI member Gail Mander when a ten-metre yacht ran aground at the entrance to the River Deben.

One person was on board and several attempts were made to get close to the boat.

Floating a tow line to the casualty was considered, but deemed too dangerous as it could have entangled in the lifeboat’s propellers.

Volunteers decided the safest option for the casualty would be to launch their tender to the lifeboat, which was then manoeuvred as close as safely possible.

The casualty was taken to Felixstowe Ferry and passed to the care of Felixstowe Coastguard mobile unit.

Gail, a specialist nurse with NHS Blood and Transplant from Dovercourt, said: "I have always been in awe of the work the RNLI does, so when I had the opportunity to join the Harwich crew it was like a dream come true.

"What should have been a routine training exercise turned into my first shout when we were asked to assist a yacht which had run aground off Felixstowe.

"The conditions were challenging and it was amazing to work first hand with such a skilled team, and having the opportunity to put my training into practice.

"I feel privileged to be part of such an amazing team, and pleased we were able to help the yacht’s occupant when they needed us."

Helmsman Antony Charles added: "A good service for Gail’s first, there was a lot to consider and take in, during which she performed brilliantly.

"Her hard work and dedication in training really paid off.

"It was good to see the occupant of the yacht was well equipped and experienced.

"It can happen to anyone, even the most experienced."

Harwich RNLI lifeboat operations manager Peter Bull added: "Harwich RNLI is immensely fortunate to have such dedicated members of the community like Gail, with or without experience of the sea, coming forward and volunteering to crew the town’s two lifeboats."