Falmouth RNLI has released a video of the stricken Russian cargo ship grounded off Gyllyngvase beach. 

Lifeboat volunteers were amongst the first on the scene this morning, having been afloat since 6.15am in horrendous conditions.

They are assisting a 16,000 tonne Russian cargo ship which ran aground.

Volunteer crews were woken abruptly to the sound of their pagers shortly after 6am, with a request from Falmouth Coastguard to launch the all-weather lifeboat Richard Cox Scott.

With coxswain John Blakeston at the command, the lifeboat travelled to the scene off Gllynvase beach, arriving shortly after 6.20am. The lifeboat has been standing by the vessel ever since, to ensure everyone’s safety.

Falmouth Packet:

The cargo ship from the view of Falmouth's all-weather lifeboat. Photo: RNLI/Falmouth

The crew have descriubed the weather conditions as "particularly challenging", with force 7-8 winds, gusting force 9, a three metre swell and torrential rain. The conditions are expected to ease throughout the day.

The lifeboat continues to stand by and the volunteer crew are liaising with the Coastguard to assist where they can throughout the recovery of the vessel.

An RNLI spokesperson said: "The volunteers have missed a day at work and have re-arranged their plans for the day to help the situation, illustrating their dedication and commitment to saving lives at sea."

The crew onboard are coxswain John Blakeston with Dave Nicoll, Luke Wills, Andy Jenkin, Tom Bird, Jonathan Hackwell and Carl Beardmore.

  • Follow live coverage of the incident as it unfolds here.