26 People Rescued By Lough Ree RNLI

Two 52 foot cruisers and a 37 foot cruiser became beached yesterday evening.

26 people have been rescued by Lough Ree RNLI. 

It's after two 52 foot cruisers and a 37 foot cruiser became beached at the Black Islands yesterday evening.

Volunteers arrived at the scene shortly after 7pm. 

Everyone on board was found to be safe and well and all three boats were re-floated.

The Tara Scougall launched from its base at Coosan Point with helm Stewart McMickan, Liam Sherringham, Emmet Devereux and Patrick Walsh onboard. 

Weather conditions at the time were squally with a force 6 wind blowing.

The rescue operation arrived on the scene within 10 minutes of the alert being raised. 

A lifeboat crew member went onboard each casualty vessel to determine if there was any damage or water ingress.

Once established that all was well, the three vessels were successfully re-floated and carried on their way.
 
Lough Ree RNLI and the Athlone Sub Aqua Club left the scene shortly afterwards and returned to their respective bases.

Speaking after the rescue, Pat Coffey, Lough Ree RNLI Deputy Launching Authority said:

‘We were delighted to help this evening and we were glad to find all onboard the vessels were safe and well. We would like to commend our colleagues from the Athlone Sub Aqua Club who also responded to this call out. As we begin another month of the summer holidays, we would like to remind everyone planning a trip or venturing out on the water to enjoy themselves and keep safety in mind. Always carry a means of communication, always wear a lifejacket or suitable floatation device, ensure your boat is well maintained and has sufficient fuel for your trip, and if you get into difficulty or see anyone else in distress or requiring assistance, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.’

More from Midlands News

Download Our App