Tobermory RNLI launches to assist search for overdue botanist

The botanist, who was carrying out fieldwork on the remote Ardmeanach peninsula in south west Mull, was reported overdue and so Tobermory RNLI's volunteer crew were requested to launch at 20:42 to assist in a multi-agency search. The lifeboat was launched less than ten minutes later and made best speed to the search area whilst Mull's coastguard rescue teams from Tobermory, Craignure and the Ross of Mull began a land search in difficult conditions with poor visibility and low cloud.

Fortunately, the botanist had a personal locator beacon and the coastguard teams made their way over rough terrain to the last known position. The teams found the person who was uninjured and assisted him back to the road. The lifeboat was stood down and returned to Tobermory where it was refuelled and made ready for service at 23:30.

Tobermory Coxswain David McHaffie said: 'We're all really pleased that there was a good outcome to this search. It shows that leaving your details and your expected time of return helps the emergency services to respond promptly if you are overdue. Last night's visibility was poor and with darkness approaching, it was really important to start searching as soon as possible to make the most of the available light'.

RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact

Dr Sam Jones, Tobermory RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager and Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 07747601900 or [email protected]

Martin Macnamara, Regional Media Officer (Scotland), 07920 365929 or [email protected]

Gemma McDonald, Regional Media Manager (Scotland), 07826 900639 or [email protected]

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