UNMANNED FISHING BOAT PROMPTS SEARCH FOR MISSING FISHERMAN

A search for a missing fisherman involving a coastguard helicopter, RNLI lifeboat and several local vessels was launched off the east coast of Unst this evening after a small creel boat was discovered with no-one on board.

A member of the public contacted Shetland Coastguard at 8.44 pm to report that they had spotted the 26ft fishing boat ‘Kathleen’ offshore with the engine running, but seemingly no-one on board.  They had taken their own boat out to investigate the vessel and found no sign of the owner of the single-manned vessel, who had not laid any of the creel pots on board.

Shetland Coastguard sent the coastguard rescue helicopter from Sumburgh to begin a search, along with requesting the launch of the Lerwick RNLI lifeboat.  Four local vessels are also assisting, with the Baltasound Coastguard Rescue Team performing a shoreline search.

Shetland Coastguard Watch Manager Katrina Hampson said:

“As well as coordinating the search and rescue resources on scene, we are currently trying to ascertain the details of what has happened in order to estimate the length of time that the fisherman has been missing. 

Singlehandedly operating a fishing vessel poses many hazards, and fishermen should always take extra care when working alone.  Always tell someone ashore where you intend to fish and when you intend to return, carry a VHF radio and wear a personal floatation device whilst working on deck.”

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