At ten minutes to two this afternoon, Liverpool Coastguard received two 999 calls from members of the public reporting that they could see a small red open topped boat with two occupants on the far side of the Irish Sea. As the boat was drifting further from sight the two individuals were heard shouting for help and waving for assistance. They were spotted half a mile off the north end of Walney Island, Barrow.
Walney Coastguard rescue team were called out and the Coastguard boat Peregrine was sent. Barrow RNLI lifeboat and inshore boat were requested to launch.Further 999 calls indicated that the two occupants had entered the water attempting to swim for the shore. The coastguard on arriving at a vantage point confirmed that the two occupants had then reboarded the vessel.
The MCA Boat Peregrine upon arrival rescued the two and transported them back to shore to a waiting ambulance to be checked over suffering from the effects of the cold water.
The vessel was taken in tow by the lifeboat, but due to it’s poor condition, the small vessel sank en route.
Tony Topping, Watch Manager, Liverpool Coastguard said:
The two men were aged 19 and 20 and from the Barrow area. They had put to sea in a derelict boat.
This incident highlights the dangers of using an unsuitable craft and no life saving apparatus.
This incident could have had a tragic outcome had it not been for the members of the public seeing the event unfold and dialing 999 and asking for the Coastguard
