Peter Gill, lifeboat operations manager for St Peter Port, confirmed the news and said: ‘The St Peter Port lifeboat station has been advised that the St Helier lifeboat is currently unavailable and withdrawn from service.
‘When a lifeboat is unavailable, flank lifeboat stations are advised and search and rescue cover is extended and thereby provided. Guernsey Coastguard has been advised.’
Meanwhile, a silent gathering showing support for the crew is due to take place at 10 am on Sunday at the St Helier station.
