Fethard RNLI assist two people on broken down yacht in Bannow Bay

The volunteer crew were requested to launch their inshore lifeboat by the Irish Coast Guard just after 9.15 pm. The crew proceeded to Fethard Dock where they launched the lifeboat and made their way to an area north-east of The Windy Gap. Weather conditions were good with a light force 2 north-westerly breeze, calm sea conditions and good visibility.

The crew arrived at the broken-down anchored vessel at 9.40 pm. The lifeboat crew assessed the situation, decided to establish a tow line and retract the keel, before towing the vessel to the safe water of Bannow, north of the Cockle strand.

This launch marks the first shout for volunteer crew member Mick Cooper, as well as Mick Roche's first launch as Helm.

Speaking after the shout, volunteer Helm Mick Roche said: ‘The crew of the yacht did everything right. They were well equipped with lifejackets, navigation tools, means of communication and great local knowledge, but were unfortunate to have engine difficulties. The crew did the right thing by alerting the Irish Coast Guard at the earliest opportunity.

'This call highlights the importance of always carrying a means of communication when involved in any water activities in or by the sea.’

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.