Donate now

Wicklow and Arklow RNLI involved in multi-agency search for a surfer

Lifeboats News Release

RNLI lifeboats from Wicklow and Arklow were involved in a multi-agency search for a missing surfer at Magheramore beach this morning (Friday 10 March).

Wicklow Shannon class lifeboat coming through the piers of Wicklow Harbour.

RNLI/Connie OGara

Wicklow Lifeboat returning after the callout.

Wicklow RNLI volunteers were requested just after 8am under the command of Coxswain Nicky Keogh, while Arklow RNLI volunteers were requested a short time later by the Irish Coast Guard Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC).

A thorough search was performed at sea by both lifeboat crews. While on land a thorough search was conducted by the Wicklow/Greystones Coast Guard unit. Conditions on scene were described as wind coming from the northeast with moderate to rough seas. Also on scene was the Dublin based Coast Guard helicopter, Rescue 116.

Once the Irish Coast guard was satisfied that all surfers were accounted for on shore the search was stood down and both lifeboats returned to station.

Speaking after the call out, Connie O’Gara, Wicklow RNLI Deputy Launching Authority said: 'We were delighted to hear that both surfers managed to get to shore safely and we wish them well.

'This search followed on from the joint exercise performed by Wicklow RNLI and Arklow RNLI just over a week ago. These joint exercises are vital to ensure a co-ordinated response during a call out such as this.'

Speaking after the call out, Wicklow RNLI Coxswain Nicky Keogh said: 'The conditions at the scene were challenging but assistance from the air by Rescue 116 was invaluable.

We would advise surfers to try to surf with someone else, especially in big swell and look out for one another. Should you get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.'

Ends

RNLI

Stock photo of Arklow Lifeboat

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.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

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.

Categories