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17th June 2022. Recently, a small boat was observed dragging its anchor, while moored off the beach half a mile from the National Coastwatch Institution station at Lee On The Solent.
The watchkeepers did not see anyone on board the vessel, but noted that the vessel's drift was accelerating and it was in danger of causing a collision with nearby craft. The watchkeepers informed HM Coastguard of the situation and updated the vessels position. HM Coastguard requested that the station continue monitoring the vessel's movement. A passing yacht also contacted the Coastguard with concerns about about the vessel.
After about 40 minutes, the owner was seen to be chasing the vessel rowing an inflatable, and with the assistance of the yacht he managed to successfully board. With the boarding safely accomplished, the Coastguard closed the incident. This is yet another example of how vital our volunteer watchkeepers are in providing Eyes Along The Coast and preventing potential danger on the water.