An eight-metre fishing boat that suffered mechanical failure nine nautical miles east of Ballycotton island yesterday evening (Monday 10 October) was brought to safety by lifeboat crew from Ballycotton and Youghal RNLI.
Ballycotton RNLI Lifeboat The Austin Lidbury was requested to launch by Dublin Coast Guard at 4.45 pm to a fishing boat that had suffered engine failure.
With a slight wind and clear visibility, Ballycotton RNLI was quickly able to locate the stricken vessel. Once the crew had spoken with the casualty and assessed the situation, a secure tow line was established. During their passage back to Youghal, they met with Youghal RNLI and passed on the tow before returning to Ballycotton at 6.30 pm.
Commenting on the callout, Ballycotton RNLI Coxswain Conor Philpott said, ‘Thankfully conditions were very good, and the person was wearing a lifejacket and had called for help as soon as they encountered engine difficulties'.
Last night's rescue was the first service for Conor Philpott in the role of Coxswain and one of the newest members Kate Flemming as a volunteer crew member.