Portrush lifeboat launched twice in one day

Portrush RNLI launched first by Belfast Coastguard at 2.50pm to reports of five paddleboarders in difficulty off Ramore Head.

The ALB was launched at 2.58pm, and due to the fact that the crew had already assembled for some training, they able to launch immediately. The visibility was excellent, with a smooth sea but a strong off shore wind, which made it difficult for the paddleboarders to return to shore.

When the ALB arrived on scene three of the boarders were alongside a local fishing vessel and the crew picked the remaining two.

All five paddleboarders were transferred to the ALB and brought back to Portrush Harbour at 3.28pm

Beni McAllister Lifeboat Operations Manager at Portrush RNLI said: “These paddle boarders were lucky, in that the off shore winds were quite strong and the five paddleboarders were exhausted trying to get back to shore.

“The local fishing boat was on scene and assisted until The ALB reached the scene and that fact we had a crew ready to go, meant we could respond very quickly.

“We would ask anyone going out to check the weather conditions, especially tides and winds to make sure it is safe to go out. Always have a means of communication with you and make sure someone knows when you will be expected back. There is further information on the RNLI website www.rnli.org/safety.”