RNLI volunteers aboard Donaghadee’s All-Weather Lifeboat, Saxon, sped to the rescue of a stricken vessel as darkness fell on Friday evening. (June 12) The 10-metre craft, with a crew of one, developed engine trouble on a passage to Westport in Co Mayo and was adrift in the busy sea lanes at the mouth of Belfast Lough.
The Saxon launched at the request of the Coastguard at 10.15pm and conducted a search in the gathering gloom one mile north of the Copeland Islands until the vessel was located. In light sea conditions a member of the RNLI crew boarded the vessel to assist with repairs and the Lifeboat then escorted it to the safety of Bangor Marina. The Saxon was back on station and stood down shortly after midnight.
Coxswain Philip McNamara said, “All boat owners are advised to conduct a thorough check of their engines, communications and safety equipment before putting to sea. If you encounter a problem, call for assistance at the earliest opportunity. We are ready to be of service and It is always better to be safe than sorry.”