Thames CG requested the immediate launch of the lifeboat to the 32' Whitstable trawler Charlie Boy with a fire on board two miles off Herne Bay.

The lifeboat proceeded at best possible speed in the dense fog, and located the trawler twenty minutes later, with help from the Port of London Authority at Gravesend, who had the vessel visible on radar.

The two crew on board had extinguished the fire, but as a result had no electrical power, although the engine was still running. 

Charlie Boy therefore returned to Whitstable under her own power, following  the lifeboat as she could not use any of her electronic navigational equipment. A lifeboat crewman was put aboard with a portable radio to maintain communications.

As there was insufficient water to enter the harbour, Charlie Boy was anchored off the Long Beach, and the two occupants landed ashore.

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