Bangor RNLI launches following reports of a swimmer in difficulty
At 3.56pm yesterday afternoon, (Tuesday 26 August), HM Coastguard requested Bangor RNLI to launch their inshore lifeboat Ruby Robinson, following a reports from a member of the public of a swimmer possibly in difficulty in Ballyholme bay.
The inshore lifeboat launched immediately with a volunteer crew of four and the lifeboat made best speed to Ballyholme bay.
Once on scene, HM Coastguard patrolling the area were able to confirm that the swimmer had returned safely to shore. After speaking to the person involved it was ascertained that they were safe and well.
Ruby Robinson was stood down and returned to station where she was cleaned and made ready for next her service.
Bangor RNLI Helm James Gilespie, said: ‘This was a false alarm with good intent and we would like to commend the person who raised the alarm as that is always the right thing to do. We would much rather launch and find all is well than not launch at all. We would like to commend our volunteers for their quick response in leaving their places of work. Should you have any concerns for your own safety or that of someone else, please call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.'
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For more information, please contact Tom Bell Bangor RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer on 075 1532 7284 or email [email protected] or Nuala McAloon, RNLI Regional Communications Manager on 00353 87 648 3547 or email [email protected] or Niamh Stephenson, RNLI Regional Communications Lead on 00353 87 1254 124 or [email protected] or Tom McGuire, Regional Communications Manager on 00353 874764436 or email [email protected]
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The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 lives.
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