Carrybridge RNLI assist four people on grounded barge close to the Share Centre

Winds were South Westerly, Force 3. Visibility was good with occasional heavy showers.

The lifeboat and RWC arrived on the scene and slowly proceeded into the shallow water. After assessing the condition of the two adults and two children on board, the vessel was checked for water ingress and none was found.

With the owner’s permission the volunteer crew of the lifeboat set up a tow line to the casualty vessel and proceeded to refloat the boat in deeper water. The barge was again checked for water ingress and the steering and propulsion also checked. No damage was found.

Speaking following the call out, Stephen Scott, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Carrybridge RNLI advised all boat users: ‘‘Before setting out on your journey please plan your route using the relevant charts and have a means of calling for assistance if you find yourself in need of assistance. If you see someone in trouble on the water or are in difficulties yourself the number to dial is: 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.’’

Ends

Notes to editors

• Carrybridge Lifeboat Station was started in 2002 on Upper Lough Erne. It currently operates an Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat and a Rescue Water Craft

  RNLI media contacts

For more information please telephone Stephen Scott, Carrybridge RNLI Volunteer Deputy Lifeboat Press Officer on 07786228968, email [email protected] or Chris Cathcart, Carrybridge RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 07595895908, email [email protected] or contact Nuala McAloon RNLI Regional Media Officer Ireland on 00353876483547 or email [email protected] or Niamh Stephenson RNLI Regional Media Manager Ireland on 00353871254124 or [email protected]

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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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