Volunteer Andy Purves was called into action for his first shout with Larne RNLI on Thursday evening (9 July) when the Northern Ireland lifeboat crew came to the aid of three on a broken-down fishing boat.
Andy, who recently joined Larne RNLI, said: “The good weather and calm conditions meant the handover of the tow between Larne all-weather lifeboat and Larne inshore lifeboat could be completed safely and without urgency.
“This was a great first experience and a reminder of the professionalism of everyone involved.”
Larne’s new all-weather lifeboat Machiko Nancy — soon to be officially named in a special ceremony — was already at sea completing a coxswain pass-out assessment for trainee coxswain Barry Kirkpatrick when at 9pm they received a tasking request from Belfast Coastguard regarding a broken-down fishing vessel.
Kirkpatrick, mechanic Ross Stewart, navigator Jack Healy and crew members Chris Dorman and Shea McFerran made their way to the casualties’ last reported location.
Weather conditions at the time were described as good with a gentle breeze and smooth seas.
The casualties were located half a mile north of Portmuck, close to the cliffs.
Once on location, the coxswain assessed the situation. It was established that all fishing crew members were safe and that the reason for the breakdown was mechanical failure.
It was established that the necessary and safest course of action was that a tow line be established, and the boat taken to the safety of the Port of Larne.
With the assistance of the inshore D class lifeboat Terry, helmed by Samantha Agnew with Andy Purves and Jordan McIlhinney on board, the boat was safely returned to Larne Boat Club.
Speaking following the call-out, Kirkpatrick said: “We would like to wish the crew well. The casualties were wearing the correct safety equipment and had the means to contact the coastguard. They did the right thing when they realised that they had broken down.
“We would encourage anyone planning a trip to sea to check their vessels and ensure engines are well maintained. When going out, always carry adequate tools and spares and ensure you have enough fuel for your journey. If you do get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.”
