Stranraer and Girvan RNLI launch to weekend shout
Stranraer RNLI volunteers were called into action twice on Saturday 7 June, responding to separate incidents just hours apart.
Both launches demonstrated the crew’s dedication and the value of close inter-station collaboration, with welcome support from nearby volunteers at Girvan RNLI.
The first tasking came at 9.21am, when HM Coastguard requested Stranraer RNLI to launch in order to assess the situation of a broken-down sailing vessel near Wig Bay. Upon locating the casualty vessel, the situation was assessed and the helm made the decision that undertaking a tow was necessary and the safest way to assist the casualties.
The casualty vessel was successfully towed to the nearest safe and suitable port at Stranraer Harbour. All persons on board were safe and well.
Later that afternoon at 3.23pm, Stranraer’s volunteer crew were requested for immediate readiness following contact from Girvan RNLI, whose all-weather lifeboat was underway on the water, towing a casualty vessel into Loch Ryan.
Stranraer’s inshore lifeboat responded to Girvan's request for support and launched from Wig Bay to assist with the final leg of the journey. The crew remained alongside Girvan’s lifeboat throughout the approach and berthing, providing close assistance until the vessel was safely secured and returned to its owner.
Sean Hannah, Lifeboat Operations Manager, says: 'Today has been a great example of dedication and teamwork in action. Our volunteer crew responded quickly and professionally to both incidents, giving up their time without hesitation.'
He adds: 'The cooperation with Girvan RNLI Lifeboat Station was seamless and made a real difference in ensuring a safe outcome. I’d like to thank everyone involved for their commitment and teamwork.'
These successive incidents highlight the ongoing commitment of Stranraer and Girvan RNLI's volunteer crews and the importance of strong coordination between RNLI stations.
RNLI media contacts
For more information, please contact:
Emma Lees, RNLI Communications Placement for Scotland, 07710 246 495, [email protected]
Natasha Rushby, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Scotland, 07826 900639, [email protected]
Martin Macnamara, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Scotland, 07920 365929, [email protected]
RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.
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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries
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