(Image: Newsquest)
A lifeboat that provides an essential part of York’s nightlife safety measures was out of action for most of last night.
While out on patrol York Rescue Boat’s vessel had a mechanical issue with its gearbox at 9pm and had to be withdrawn from service.
It will be back working as normal on the River Ouse tonight, after a 90-minute high speed repair by marine engineers.
“A big thanks to our friends at Acaster Marine for helping keep us operational,” York Rescue Boat said in a statement.
At 9pm, the lifeboat's gearbox failed when it was on patrol and was taken out of service.
The volunteer organisation which helps those in trouble on the water in York launched one of its flood rescue boats to take its place.
At 1am, the replacement boat answered a callout and was part of a search for a high risk missing person in the city centre.
At 9am, as soon as the boatyard at Acaster Marine, Acaster Malbis opened, engineers there took charge of the lifeboat, diagnosed the problem and had it repaired by 10.30am.
RECOMMENDED READING
- Person in York river - emergency crews called to scene
- 'Frustration' over York river safety prompts call for action to 'save lives'
- Person in York river after railings give way - emergency services called
“We can’t thank them enough for helping us so quickly,” York Rescue Boat said.
“We'll be back on the water this evening for our routine patrols, with our foot patrols walking the banks engaging with people, give us a wave if you see us.”