Lifeboatmen sprang into action when a 60ft steel hull motor cruiser ran aground with two casualties aboard. 

The call-out marked the first rescue mission for the Duke of Edinburgh, the RNLI’s state-of-the-art Shannon Class lifeboat which went into service at Wells-next-the-Sea in June. 

Coxswain Nicky King commanded a crew of six on the rescue boat after the cruiser came a cropper at the mouth of Wells Harbour around 9pm on August 7.

Eastern Daily Press: The Duke of Edinburgh makes it way to its first rescue 'shout'The Duke of Edinburgh makes it way to its first rescue 'shout' (Image: James Betteridge RNLI)

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They arrived to find the boat afloat, but without navigation or deck lights, and the skipper was suffering from sea sickness. 

The lifeboat stayed with the cruiser until the tide was high enough to enter the harbour, and two of its crew went aboard at 10.25pm to help guide the stricken boat in. 

Mr King said: “It was fantastic to see the capabilities of the Duke of Edinburgh on the first call out since the arrival. 

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Eastern Daily Press: The Duke of Edinburgh makes it way to its first rescue 'shout'The Duke of Edinburgh makes it way to its first rescue 'shout' (Image: Wells RNLI)

“The whole station crew working together demonstrated the extensive training we have undertaken. 

“I am incredibly proud of all the volunteers and the state-of-the-art equipment we work with.”

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Eastern Daily Press: Wells Lifeboat coxswain Nicky KingWells Lifeboat coxswain Nicky King (Image: RNLI)

Mark Frary, the second coxswain, said: “No shout is ever a good shout but it was great to put all the training we have undertaken as volunteers put into action to assist those in need and save lives at sea.”

Wells’ RNLI station will host its annual lifeboat service on Sunday, August 13 at 5pm. During the day, the station will be open to the public, who will be able to view the Duke of Edinburgh, meet volunteers, and learn more about the station and the lifesaving work of the RNLI. 

The boat was named in honour of Prince Philip and his long-standing commitment to maritime services. The vessel has a top speed of around 27 knots.