#RESCUE - The crew of a fishing vessel were rescued from a life raft last night after their fishing vessel 'Moyuna' ran aground at the entrance to Ardglass Harbour.

The 15 metre vessel was returning from a fishing trip when it hit the rocks. With the vessel listing at 30 degrees they broadcast a mayday alert on Channel 16 before the four crew took to the life raft. They were rescued from there by another fishing vessel 'The Three Coins'.

All four crew were brought ashore at Ardglass Harbour safe and well where the South Down Coastguard Rescue Team met them. The damage to the 'Moyuna' is now being assessed.

Belfast Coastguard Watch Manager Alan Pritchard said:
"The crew did exactly the right thing in calling for assistance and taking to the life raft to wait for help to reach them.

"The MAIB have been informed and they will be investigating the circumstances that led to tonight's grounding. MCA's surveyors are also aware."