A POOLE lifeboat crew battled extreme weather conditions during Storm Eunice on Friday in response to reports of a person in need.

The RNLI crew was requested to launch at 10.40am by UK Coastguard just as Poole was feeling the full brunt of the storm.

Reports had come through that ‘cries for help’ had been heard from the vicinity of Poole Quay Boat Haven, which is a quarter of mile along the quay from the lifeboat station.

At the time of launch Poole was on a red weather alert, with the crew experiencing a collision of gale-force west to south west winds and roaring tides.

The lifeboat volunteers were soon on scene and a search ensued around the pontoons and the marina. Search and rescue coastguards were on scene shore side also searching.

Bournemouth Echo: Poole RNLI launches during Storm Eunice. Picture: RNLIPoole RNLI launches during Storm Eunice. Picture: RNLI

Conditions did not let up, and the volunteers continued with the search but as nothing untoward was found, they were eventually stood down and returned to station.

The lifeboat was again made ready for service by 12.30pm.

Poole Lifeboat volunteer helm Jonathan Clark said: “As the stormy weather continues, don’t put yourself in danger, if you see anyone else in trouble call 999 and ask for the Coastguard, stay home and stay safe.”