The lifeboat launched to reports of a vessel on fire and located the motor cruiser Aurina 1½-miles east north east of Reculver. The motor-cruiser had been taken under tow by the Fisheries Patrol Vessel Ken Green. Margate all-weather lifeboat had also been tasked.

A crewman with a fire extinguisher was transferred from Whitstable Lifeboat and dealt with areas of smouldering in the Aurina’s engine compartment.

Shortly afterwards Margate Lifeboat arrived at the scene and took onboard the Aurina’s two occupants. The motor-cruiser was then taken under tow by Margate Lifeboat and Whitstable Lifeboat returned to station.