Bangor RNLI joined a multi-agency rescue operation on Thursday morning after a swimmer got into difficulty off Groomsport Beach in County Down. The casualty is believed to have been in the water for up to two hours before being rescued in challenging conditions near Groomsport Harbour.
Bangor RNLI’s Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat launched shortly after 7 am following a request from Belfast coastguard. A member of the public had raised the alarm after spotting the swimmer in difficulty. The volunteer crew was helmed by Pete Semple, with Gavin Mitchell, Andrew Gedge and Jonny Gedge onboard.
Conditions at the scene included a north-easterly Force 4 wind, heavy swell and large breaking waves.
Bangor Coastguard’s shore team arrived first and requested assistance as the casualty was located behind the harbour wall in a hazardous area. RNLI crew assessed the situation and decided the quickest and safest option was to place crew member Gavin Mitchell into the water to assist a Coastguard officer already attempting to reach the swimmer.
The casualty was trapped between large boulders and the harbour wall and was showing signs of exhaustion, weakness and extreme cold. Working together in difficult conditions, the RNLI and Coastguard teams used a rescue sled to move the swimmer through the surf and onto the beach. The casualty was then treated ashore before being transferred to the care of the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service.
Speaking after the rescue, RNLI crew member Gavin Mitchell praised the teamwork involved in the operation. “We want to wish the swimmer a speedy recovery following their ordeal this morning,” he said. “This was a challenging call-out given the location of the casualty, the breaking waves and the casualty’s condition at the time.
“We want to commend the member of the public who raised the alarm, as time was certainly of the essence, and we want to thank our colleagues, particularly those in Bangor Coastguard, for their efforts.”
Mitchell also urged swimmers to take precautions during the summer months. “Where possible, do not swim alone, carry a means of communication such as a phone in a waterproof pouch and know how to float if you get into difficulty,” he said.
