Sligo Bay RNLI respond to paddleboarder thought to be in difficulty

The volunteer crew launched the lifeboat at 8.15pm and made their way to the scene.

Weather conditions at the time were challenging with a force 5-6, 30 knot, south westerly wind which was creating a wind driven swell.

Once on scene at 8.27pm, the crew located the paddleboarder with the assistance of the Irish Coast Guard helicopter, Rescue 118 from Sligo. The lifeboat crew came alongside the paddleboarder to check that they were ok and if they required assistance.

Following a conversation, the paddleboarder confirmed that everything was fine and that they were able to make their way ashore unaided.

Speaking after what his first call out since joining the lifeboat crew last December, Sligo Bay RNLI's Eamon Cronin said: 'This proved to be a false alarm with good intent but we would much always rather launch to find all is well than not launch at all so we want to commend the person who raised the alarm, that is always the right thing to do if you are concerned for someone else's safety.

'This was a great experience with my fellow crew members for my first shout on the lifeboat and I want to thank them for looking after me so well. It was a great opportunity to put all my training and skills learned to date, into action.'

Ends

RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact:

Aisling Gillen, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for Sligo Bay RNLI: [email protected]

Nuala McAloon, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Ireland, 087 648 3547, [email protected]

Niamh Stephenson, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Ireland, 087 125 4124, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]

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