Swimmer rescued by Larne RNLI near Ballygally Beach in first shout for new Coxswain

RNLI crews pictured off the Larne coast, County Antrim. (Image: Jason Bain/RNLI)

Volunteer lifeboat crews from Larne RNLI launched a successful rescue operation on Tuesday afternoon (23 September) after a swimmer was reported to be in difficulty near Ballygally Beach.

The incident marked the first operational shout for newly appointed Coxswain Roy McMullan.

The call to launch came at 1.21pm following a report from a concerned member of the public. Both the Inshore D class Lifeboat Terry and the All-Weather Lifeboat Dr John McSparran were deployed at the request of HM Coastguard.

Weather conditions were favourable at the time, with calm seas and a slight breeze aiding the search effort.

The Inshore Lifeboat was helmed by Samantha Agnew, accompanied by Jordan McIlhinney and Phil Ford-Hutchinson. The All-Weather Lifeboat was led by Coxswain Roy McMullan, with Mechanic Derek Rea and crew members Chris Dorman, Catherine Lee and Gary Hanna onboard.

Upon arrival at the swimmer’s last known location, both lifeboats conducted an initial sweep of the area.

With no immediate sign of the individual, crews initiated a coordinated search pattern across a wider zone. Shortly thereafter, the Inshore Lifeboat crew located the swimmer, who was using a tow float and appeared cold, shaking, and fatigued.

The swimmer had been in the water for approximately two hours, significantly longer than they had realised, believing they had only been swimming for 45 minutes. They were safely brought onboard and returned to shore, where they were assessed by the RNLI crew before being handed into the care of HM Coastguard Larne.

Speaking after the rescue, Coxswain Roy McMullan said:

“We would like to wish the swimmer well. We would also like to commend the member of the public for raising the alarm, this is always the right thing to do. Should you see someone in difficulty, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.”

He also offered safety advice for open water swimmers:

“Open water swimming is a popular activity, and we would encourage all swimmers to enjoy their swim while using some key safety advice.

“Check weather forecast and tide times before venturing out.

“Always carry a means of calling for help and let someone on the shore know where you are going and when you are due back.

“If you can, try to avoid swimming alone – consider going with a buddy or as part of a group and look out for one another.

“Make sure you have the right kit. We would recommend a wetsuit in order to keep you warm and to increase your buoyancy together with a bright swim cap to make you more visible and take a tow float to use in an emergency.

“Should you see someone in difficulty, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.”

The RNLI continues to urge the public to remain vigilant and prioritise safety when engaging in open water activities.