MISSING CANOEISTS FOUND IN FIRTH OF FORTH

Two canoeists have been found after a three hour search of the Firth of Forth last night.

Forth Coastguard was alerted by Lothian and Borders Police at just after 10.30pm last night. The caller explained that they had made it ashore but two canoeists and two swimmers were in difficulty near Gipsy Bay, Granton.

Coastguard Rescue Teams from Kinghorn, Queensferry and Anstruther began a shoreline search whilst the RNLI lifeboats from Queensferry and Fisherow searched the sea with the RAF Rescue Helicopter from Boulmer. Lothian and Borders Police, Fire Brigade and Scottish Ambulance also attended the scene.

The swimmers made it ashore and one of the Coastguard Rescue Teams found a canoeist at just before 11pm.

The RAF rescue helicopter from Boulmer found the second canoeist at just after 1am. He was flown to hospital in Edinburgh.

Forth Watch Officer Simon Ward said:

“We’re not sure how this group got in to difficulty tonight but it is a timely reminder that as well as wearing the buoyancy aids recommended by their sport’s governing body, canoeists should carry hand held vhf, flares and a charged mobile phone. That way you can call for help as soon as you need it.”

 -Ends-

Notes to Editors
 
Stay safe - before heading out on the water get trained, check weather and tides, wear a lifejacket, avoid alcohol and keep in touch

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