“We would encourage anyone planning a trip to sea to go prepared”
Two people were rescued by the RNLI on Wednesday after their 31ft yacht had engine difficulty and broke down.
At 6.05pm yesterday, September 17, the pagers sounded for the volunteers of Bangor RNLI’s inshore lifeboat Ruby Robinson. Belfast Coastguard asked Bangor RNLI to assist two people onboard a yacht that had broken down just off South Briggs Buoy and was in difficulty.
Bangor RNLI launched at 6.15pm with crew members, John Bell, Pete Semple, Dave Beale and Christine Beale onboard and headed to the casualty vessel.
READ MORE: RNLI assist ‘man in difficulty’ at Co Antrim harbour after yacht loses powerREAD MORE: Two people drifted nearly a mile out to sea on dinghy rescued by local vessel and RNLI
Once on location, the crew assessed the situation and a member was transferred to the casualty boat where they found the pair to be safe and well and wearing appropriate lifejackets. Given the sea state and wind conditions at the time, a decision was made to set up a tow line and bring the vessel to the nearest, safest harbour at Bangor Marina.
Speaking following the call out, Davey Eccles, Bangor RNLI Launch Authority said: “This evening’s call out resulted in good outcome and we wish the sailors well. We also thank all of our volunteer lifeboat and shore crew members for their commitment and service this evening.
“We would encourage anyone planning a trip to sea to go prepared. Always check and maintain your engine. Always carry tools and spares and a means for calling for help and should you get into difficulty, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.”
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