Larne RNLI rescues four people onboard small rib that breaks down

The volunteer crew were requested to launch their All-Weather Lifeboat Dr John McSparran at 1:47pm at the request of HM Coastguard after a member of the crew onboard the rib raised the alarm. Coxswain Barry Kirkpatrick, Mechanic Scott Leitch and crew members, Jordan McIlhinney, Catherine Lee, Ross Stewart and Shea McFerran made their way to the casualties' last reported location.

Weather conditions at the time were described as good and sunny with a slight breeze.

The casualties were located approximately eight nautical miles northeast of Larne in shallow seas close to the West Maiden Lighthouse.

Once on location, the Coxswain assessed the situation. It was established that all crew members were safe and that the reason for the breakdown was engine failure; this resulted in two of the divers having to swim for around a mile to get back to the rib. After checking that all on board were safe and following an assessment at the scene by the Coxswain, it was established that the necessary and safest course of action was that a tow line be established, and the boat taken the safety of the Blue Circle Boat Club. Three of the casualties were then transferred to the lifeboat where two were provided with casualty care.

The all-weather lifeboat established the tow line, and the boat was taken to the entrance of the Port of Larne where the tow line was passed to the inshore lifeboat. With the assistance of the inshore D class lifeboat Terry helmed by Pamela Leitch, with Kathryn Brennan, and Phil Ford-Hutchinson on board the rib was safely returned to the Blue Circle Boat Club.

Speaking following the call out, Larne RNLI Coxswain, Barry Kirkpatrick said, ‘We would like to wish the divers well. The casualties were wearing the correct safety equipment and had the means to contact the Coastguard. They did the right thing when they realised that they had broken down.’ '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 Jason_Bain@rnli.org.uk or Nuala McAloon, RNLI Regional Communications Manager on 087 648 3547 or email [email protected] or Niamh Stephenson, RNLI Regional Communications Lead on 087 1254 124 or Niamh_Stephenson@rnli.org.uk or Treasa Ni Bhraonain, RNLI Communications Placement on 0874764436 or Treasa_NiBhraonain@rnli.org.uk