The crew of Prestwick-based search and rescue helicopter Rescue 199 have been honoured for an outstanding long-range air/sea rescue in extreme weather conditions in the North Atlantic.
Captain Jamie Ross, Co-Pilot Harry Howell, Winch Operator Alan Robertson and Winch Paramedic Mark Warters received the Edward and Maisie Lewis Award from national maritime charity the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society as part of its annual Skill & Gallantry Awards.
Award for extreme range rescue
The crew were recognised for demonstrating the highest standards of skill, professionalism and crew co-operation during the evacuation of an injured crew member from a yacht approximately 170 nautical miles west of Prestwick.
On 7 September 2025, Rescue 199 was tasked to assist the yacht, callsign CV11, after a crew member sustained a serious head injury and required urgent medical treatment.
Conditions at the scene were exceptionally challenging, with four-to five-metre swells and winds between 45 and 55 knots.
Careful planning and support
Given the distance from shore and the severity of the weather, the crew carefully planned the operation before committing to the rescue. They requested additional support from Barra Lifeboat and a Coastguard fixed-wing aircraft to provide every possible safeguard.
On arrival, the crew found the yacht pitching heavily under motor power, with its mast swinging dramatically and its deck strewn with rigging and hazards. The scale of the vessel’s movement, together with limited visual references, placed the rescue at the limits of what could safely be attempted.
Skill and teamwork in demanding conditions
Winch Operator Alan Robertson calmly conned the aircraft into position, enabling the successful deployment of a highline and the safe insertion of Winch Paramedic Mark Warters onto the unstable deck. Mark rapidly assessed and prepared the casualty for recovery, before the crew completed a highly demanding winch from a forward position on the vessel to reduce the risk of snagging.
Throughout the mission, Captain Jamie Ross and Co-Pilot Harry Howell maintained navigation, fuel management and multi-agency coordination with calm efficiency, allowing the aircraft to complete the rescue safely at the limits of its range and endurance.
The casualty was successfully recovered and flown to hospital for the urgent treatment required.
Recognition from the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society
Captain Justin Osmond RN, Chief Executive of the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society, said: “This was an exceptional rescue conducted in some of the most demanding conditions imaginable. Operating at extreme range, in violent seas and high winds, every member of the Rescue 199 crew displayed outstanding professionalism, judgement and composure. Their skill and teamwork ensured that a seriously injured casualty received the urgent care required, and they are thoroughly deserving recipients of this year’s Edward and Maisie Lewis Award.”
The Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society offers support to those across the UK who are suffering hardship during or after a life at sea. The charity supports seafarers and their dependants, helping to make a positive difference to their lives. The charity continues to provide help to thousands of individuals each year by offering financial and practical support to those in need.
To find out more information about the charity, visit www.shipwreckedmariners.org.uk, www.facebook.com/shipwreckedmariners or follow @ShipwreckedSoc on Twitter.
