Larne RNLI rescue fishing boat near Portmuck on Antrim coast

Larne RNLI (Image: Jason Bain/RNLI)

The volunteer crew of Larne RNLI launched their lifeboats on Thursday afternoon (25 September) after a fishing vessel suffered engine failure and began drifting towards shallow waters off the County Antrim coast.

At 3.46pm, HM Coastguard requested the launch of both the inshore D class lifeboat Terry and the all-weather lifeboat Dr John McSparran, following a distress call from one of the boat’s crew.

Conditions at the time were reported as fair, with a moderate breeze and choppy seas.

The inshore lifeboat was helmed by Willie Evans, with Jordan McIlhinney and Shea McFerran onboard, while the all-weather lifeboat was crewed by Coxswain Chris Dorman, Mechanic Derek Rea and volunteers Martin Agnew, Fiona Kirkpatrick, Pamela Leitch and Phil Ford-Ferguson.

The stricken vessel, with three people onboard, was located drifting into shallow waters between Portmuck and Browns Bay. The crew, who had been fishing, were found safe and well, with the breakdown confirmed as engine failure.

After assessing the situation, Coxswain Dorman decided the safest course of action was to tow the vessel to the nearest safe harbour at Portmuck. With assistance from the inshore lifeboat, the tow was successfully carried out, and the casualties were handed into the care of Portmuck Coastguard.

Speaking after the callout, Larne RNLI Coxswain Chris Dorman praised the response of those onboard:

“The casualties had the means to contact the Coastguard and did the right thing when they realised that they were in difficulty.

“We would encourage anyone planning a trip to sea to check their vessels and ensure engines are well maintained. When going out, always carry adequate tools and spares and ensure you have enough fuel for your journey.

“If you do get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.”