First shout onboard all-weather lifeboat for Larne RNLI volunteer crew member

When her pager went off this afternoon, volunteer crew member Kathryn Brennan, a software engineer from Larne was called into action for her first shout onboard the all-weather lifeboat. Kathryn, a crew member for the Larne RNLI lifeboat station said ‘With this being my first shout onboard the all-weather lifeboat, it was good getting to put my training into use. I continuously feel supported by the rest of the crew who always go out of their way to pass down their knowledge and experience to me which makes me feel more ready with each shout. It's reassuring to know that you've got a good group of crew members there to guide you.’

The volunteer crew of Larne RNLI were requested to launch their all-weather lifeboat Dr John McSparran at 1.26pm at the request of HM Coastguard after the crew member onboard the yacht raised the alarm.

Weather conditions at the time were fine with light winds and calm seas.

The all-weather lifeboat with Coxswain Roy McMullan Mechanic Derek Rea and crew members Catherine Lee, Nigel Kane, Phil Ford-Hutchinson, Shea McFerran, Kathryn Brennan and Chris Dorman onboard made their way to the yachts last reported location.

The casualty was located in Browns Bay drifting towards shallow waters. Once on location, the Coxswain assessed the situation, and a crew member was transferred to the yacht where they found the casualty to be safe and well. It was established that the reason for the breakdown was engine failure. After checking that the casualty on board was safe and following a further assessment at the scene by the Coxswain, it was established that the necessary and safest course of action was that a short tow line be established and the boat taken out of the bay into deeper waters. The all-weather lifeboat established the tow line, and the boat was taken out of the bay. Once it was established that the yacht was no longer drifting and that it was safely anchored to the seabed the crew returned to the Port of Larne.

Speaking following the call out, Larne RNLI Coxswain Roy McMullan said: ‘The casualty had the means to contact the Coastguard and did the right thing when they realised that they were in difficulty.’ 'We would encourage anyone planning a trip to sea to check their vessels and ensure engines are well maintained. When going out, always carry adequate tools and spares and ensure you have enough fuel for your journey. If you do get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.’

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RNLI media contacts

For more information, please contact Jason Bain, Larne Lifeboat Press Officer on 07891467545 or email [email protected] or Nuala McAloon, RNLI Regional Communications Manager on 0876483547 or email [email protected] or Niamh Stephenson, RNLI Regional Communications Lead on 0871254124 or email [email protected] or Treasa Ni Bhraonain, RNLI Communications Placement on 0874764436 or email [email protected]