Carrybridge RNLI tasked to assist 2 people on a sailing yacht which ran aground

Winds were Westerly, Force 1. Visibility was good with clear skies.

When the volunteer crew were one minute away from the casualties last known position, they were provided with a further update from Belfast Coastguard to confirm that the sailing yacht had been refloated and was making way under its own power again.

The lifeboat crew noted the information and proceeded onwards to locate the casualty vessel to make sure both the people on board and the vessel itself were all ok.

The casualty yacht was located by the volunteer crew approx. 1 mile south from the initial location where the grounding was reported. The yacht was in the process of mooring up at their private marina. The lifeboat came alongside the pontoon at the marina and spoke with the owners of the sailing yacht who confirmed they were all safe and well, and their yacht was also undamaged and in good working order after being aground.

This information was relayed back to Belfast Coastguard, after which the lifeboat was released to return to station where it was left ready for service again.

Also in attendance by land were the Lough Erne Coastguard Rescue Team.

Speaking following the call out, Stephen Scott, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Carrybridge RNLI advised all boat users: ‘‘During the start of the busy summer season, and with this great spell of summer weather we are now encountering, we are seeing more people making the most of our wonderful waterways. We would advise all boat users before setting out on your journey to please plan your route ahead using the relevant charts for the area making sure to check the navigational marks on the water to those shown on your chart. Have a means of calling for assistance if you find yourself in trouble and have lifejackets for all on board.

If you see someone or something in trouble on the water or are in difficulties yourself the number to dial is: 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.’’

Ends

Photo Credit: Carrybridge RNLI

Notes to editors

· Carrybridge Lifeboat Station was started in 2002 on Upper Lough Erne. It currently operates an Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat

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