Dear Derek

I am writing to express my sincere gratitude to you and the crew of Weymouth Lifeboat for a superb response to our request for assistance to the above incident in the early hours on the morning of 22nd November 2000.

This was a long and tiring operation for all involved who battled fierce winds and seas in the dark to ensure the safety of the vessel, and that no injuries were sustained to her crew. It was indeed testimony to the commitment and endurance by all involved that the stricken Ro Ro Ferry "Britta-Oden" did not berth in Southampton until 22:59, some 19 hours after her original Mayday call.

To have an RNLI vessel such as yours standing by for so long is so reassuring for not just the vessel in distress but also the Coastguard who can call upon your expertise in an emergency.

This is yet another fine example of the dedication and professionalism of the RNLI. Again on behalf of MRSC Portland, my thanks to you and the crew.

Yours sincerely

Dave Morris

A/District Controller