Bangor RNLI Rescues Four From Boat With Engine Trouble

Bangor RNLI comes to the aid of four people after 18ft vessel encounters engine trouble off Donaghadee

At 8.14pm on Friday (9 5 25) the pagers sounded for volunteers at Bangor RNLI to assist the crew of a 18-foot pleasure fishing vessel with suspected engine failure at Rig Bank, South East of the Copeland Islands.

Donaghadee RNLI at the time were on another call out to assist the crew of a vessel in difficulty off Ballywalter.

Bangor RNLI’s lifeboat Ruby Robinson made best speed to the casualty vessel and found the four people onboard safe and well and all wearing lifejackets.

Assessing the situation and confirming the boat could not make any safe onward progress, helm Gareth Whan decided the best solution was to tow the casualty vessel to the nearest safest harbour at Donaghadee.

Following the tow to Donaghadee, Ruby Robinson returned to Bangor where she was washed, refuelled, and made ready for her next service at 10.30pm.

Speaking following the call out, Bangor RNLI Helm Gareth Whan said: “It was good to be able to support our flank station Donaghadee RNLI who ordinarily would have responded to this but were dealing with another call out this evening.

“The owner did exactly the right thing by calling for help when they knew they were in difficulty.

“We encourage anyone planning a trip to sea to always have a means for calling for help and to ensure everyone onboard knows how to use it.

“Learn how to start, run and maintain your engine and always carry tools and spares in the event you need them. Should you get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.”