Glasgow And Ships Of The Clyde

Troon Life-boat launched to drifting lifeboat "Rebecca" at Irvine Harbour

From "The Ardrossan & Saltcoats Herald" dated Friday 20th January 1961

INCIDENT AT IRVINE HARBOUR

Three men, two being from Kilwinning and one from Irvine - sailed out of Irvine Harbour last Saturday afternoon in a converted life-boat, the "Rebecca," to go duck shooting.

Offshore, however, the boat developed engine trouble and the men steered her into the beach at the North Bar, where she grounded.
The men waded ashore and started to walk back to Irvine Harbour to obtain a boat to tow the "Rebecca" into Harbour.

The "Rebecca" refloated, and was sighted by Irvine Harbour Authority who informed the Coastguard, and they, in turn, alerted Troon life-boat, which put out and took the "Rebecca" in tow.

Meanwhile the three men had reached the harbour, acquired a boat and sailed out to "salvage" the "Rebecca" but met the Troon life-boat towing her in.

While the men were not at any time in danger, and while sympathy can be expressed with the lifeboatmen for their unnecessary trip, the incident is worth noting in tribute to the vigilance of the Harbour Authorities and Coastguard, and the readiness of the lifeboat service to answer any call.