Bangor RNLI launch after reports of a fishing boat aground and sinking
Bangor RNLI were requested to launch and attend an incident at Helen's Bay where there were reports of a fishing vessel aground and taking on water on Sunday (6 April).
At 7.15am, Belfast Coastguard requested the assistance of the lifeboat to attend a vessel reportedly breaking up and sinking just off Helen's Bay. It was unknown at the time if any people were onboard.
The volunteer crew members of Bangor RNLI launched Ruby Robinson and made best possible speed to the scene. It was observed that the vessel had indeed run aground and was breaking up and sinking. There was no sign of anyone onboard.
Along with HM Coastguard shore teams and HM Coastguard helicopter Rescue 199 from Prestwick, a search of the sea and shoreline was co-ordinated and implemented.
At approximately 9.30am, the owner of the boat and a friend were found ashore safe and well.
Bangor RNLI helm John Bell said: ‘Thankfully we found the owner of the boat and his friend safe and well ashore.
'When going afloat we would encourage people to let someone on the shore know where you are going and when you are due back. If you see someone in trouble on the water or are in difficulties yourself, do not hesitate to call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.
'We would also like to thank our colleagues in the Coastguard and those on our own lifeboat and our shore crew for their efforts today.’
Ends
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For more information, contact Tom Bell, Bangor RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer at [email protected]
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