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Invergordon RNLI assists with medical extraction from rig in the Cromarty Firth

Lifeboats News Release

The volunteer crew of Invergordon RNLI lifeboat were tasked by HM Coastguard to assist with a medical evacuation from a moored drilling rig in the Cromarty Firth this morning (Friday 7 November)

Agnes AP Barr on approach to Rig

RNLI/Michael MacDonald

Agnes AP Barr on approach to Rig

The Shannon-class all-weather lifeboat ‘Agnes AP Barr’ launched swiftly with her volunteer crew on board and made best speed to the rig’s location within the Firth.

Upon arrival, the lifeboat coordinated into position by the rig, ensuring a safe handover and transfer of the casualty to the lifeboat.

The individual was treated on board the lifeboat by casualty carers en route back to Invergordon, where they were handed into the care of the Scottish Ambulance Service for onward treatment

Invergordon Lifeboat Coxswain Neil Ross said: “Our crew responded quickly and professionally to assist with this medical evacuation, working closely with HM Coastguard and the rig’s medical team. The operation was well coordinated, and we wish the casualty a full and speedy recovery.”

The ‘Agnes AP Barr’ was made ready for service shortly after returning to the station.

This incident highlights the continued collaboration between the RNLI, HM Coastguard, offshore operators, and emergency services in ensuring the safety of all those working and operating in the Cromarty Firth.

Notes to editor

The RNLI is the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.

Inverordon RNLI is based in Shore Road, Invergordon, IV18 0EX. The lifeboat station was founded in 1974 and the volunteer crew use an all-weather Shannon class lifeboat Agnes AP Barr

RNLI media contacts

For further information, please contact:

Michael MacDonald,Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for Invergordon RNLI, 01349 853915, [email protected]

Richard Smith, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Scotland, 07826 900639, [email protected]

Martin Macnamara, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Scotland, 07920 365929, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]

Key facts about the RNLI

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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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.

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