A SOMERSET business has helped save an RNLI lifeboat team who could not conduct rescues due to mobility issues.
A Burnham-on-Sea RNLI launch vehicle was at risk of being taken out of service over the August bank holiday weekend after a flat tyre was discovered on one of the station's launch tractors.
The problem was identified on Friday, August 28, raising concerns that both of the station's lifeboats could face delays launching in the event of an emergency callout.
The issue also came ahead of the station's annual Rescue Services Day on the Sunday, when volunteers demonstrate their emergency response capabilities to the public.
Fortunately, Cheddar-based Redline Tyres stepped in to help, fitting a new inner tube and carrying out the repair free of charge for the charity.
Burnham RNLI Launch Authority Phil Council said the flat tyre could have caused major problems for the station.
He said: "We suffered a flat tyre on one of our launch vehicles at Burnham RNLI Lifeboat Station which meant that we were going to have major issues launching our Atlantic 85 lifeboat.
"I rang Redline Tyres at 2.45pm on the Friday afternoon and they were with us at 9am on Saturday morning, when competitors offered Tuesday call-out at the earliest due to it being a bank holiday weekend.
"Thank you for allowing us to stay on service on the Somerset coast because of your prompt response."
The RNLI said a delay in repairing the tractor could have affected its ability to launch lifeboats quickly during emergencies over the busy holiday weekend.
Volunteers have publicly thanked Redline Tyres for its swift response, which ensured the station remained operational and able to continue providing lifesaving cover along the Somerset coastline.
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