Larne RNLI rescues fishing boat near Muck Island

All-weather lifeboat towing casualties back to safety of Ballylumford Harbour (Image: Jack Healy/RNLI)

The volunteer crew of Larne RNLI launched both their inshore and all-weather lifeboats on Sunday afternoon (28 September) after a fishing vessel suffered engine failure northeast of Muck Island.

HM Coastguard requested assistance at 3.07pm, after one of the crew onboard the 17-foot boat raised the alarm. Weather conditions were described as fine, with calm seas.

The inshore D-class lifeboat Terry, helmed by Pamela Leitch with crew members Shea McFerran and Jordan McIlhinney, was launched alongside the all-weather lifeboat Dr John McSparran, led by Coxswain Martin Agnew, Mechanic Derek Rea and crew members Scott Leitch, Catherine Lee, Willie Evans, Dave Somerville and Jack Healy.

The boat was located approximately one nautical mile northeast of Muck Island. The two men onboard, who had been fishing, were found safe and well.

Following an assessment at the scene, it was established that the breakdown was caused by engine failure.

The all-weather lifeboat secured a tow line and brought the vessel towards Ballylumford Harbour, where the inshore lifeboat assisted in safely guiding it into port.

Speaking after the call-out, Larne RNLI Helm Pamela Leitch praised the actions of the boat’s crew:

“The casualties were wearing the correct safety equipment and had the means to contact the Coastguard. They did the right thing when they realised that they were in difficulty.”

She added a reminder to all sea users:

“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.”

The incident marks another example of the vital role played by RNLI volunteers in safeguarding lives along the Antrim coast.