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Bangor RNLI volunteers launch to assist vessel with engine trouble in Donaghadee

Lifeboats News Release

At 8,14pm on Friday evening the pagers sounded calling the volunteers from Bangor lifeboat to assist a 18tf pleasure fishing vessel with suspected engine failure at Rig Bank, South East of the Copeland Islands.

An orange lifeboat moving quickly on the water with waves forming behind it. The background shows a coastal town with various houses and trees.

RNLI/Joshua Conway

A bright orange lifeboat speeds across the water towards the camera, creating a wake behind it. In the background, a coastal town with houses and greenery is visible under a clear sky.
Belfast Coastguard would have ordinarily have tasked Donaghadee lifeboat, however the volunteers from Donaghadee were already on a shout assisting a vessel in trouble just off Ballywalter.

Bangor lifeboat Ruby Robinson made best speed to the casualty vessel and found the four people on board safe and well, It was noted they were all wearing lifejackets. Assessing the situation Bangor lifeboat helm Gareth Whan decided the best solution was to tow the casualty vessel to the nearest safest harbour at Donaghadee.

Following the tow to Donaghadee Ruby Robinson returned to Bangor where she was washed , refuelled and made ready for her next service at 10.30pm.

Bangor lifeboat helm said 'It was good to be able to support our flank station Donaghadee this evening. The owner did exactly the right thing by calling for help. Always have a means for calling for help and ensure everyone on board knows how to use it. Learn how to Strat, run and maintain your engine. Always carry tools and spares'

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity 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 146,000 lives.

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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.