Ballycotton RNLI rescues fisherman 9 miles east of Ballycotton island
A fisherman on an 8m boat that suffered mechanical failure nine nautical miles east of Ballycotton island yesterday evening (Monday 10 October) was brought to safety by volunteer lifeboat crew from Ballycotton and Youghal RNLI.
Ballycotton RNLI's lifeboat The Austin Lidbury was requested to launch by Dublin Coast Guard at 4.45pm to go to the aid of a person on a fishing boat that had suffered engine failure.
With a slight wind and clear visibility, Ballycotton RNLI's crew was quickly able to locate the stricken vessel. Once the crew had spoken with the casualty and assessed the situation, a secure tow line was established and a decision made to bring the vessel to the nearest safe port at Youghal. During the passage back to Youghal, the all-weather lifeboat met with Youghal RNLI's inshore lifeboat and passed on the tow before the crew returned to Ballycotton at 6.30pm.
Commenting on the call out Ballycotton RNLI Coxswain Conor Philpott said: ‘Thankfully conditions were very good at sea and the person was wearing a lifejacket and had called for help as soon as they encountered engine difficulties’.
Last night's rescue was the first service for Conor Philpott in the role of Coxswain and also for one of the newest members, Kate Fleming as a volunteer crew member.
'If you see somebody in trouble on the water or along the coast,' Conor said, 'or think they are in trouble, dial 999 or 112 or use VHF radio CH 16 and ask for the Coast Guard.'
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