LOCH GAIRLOCH SEARCH FOR MISSING MAN SUSPENDED

After another day of extensive land, sea and air searches in the Loch Gairloch area for a 32 year old man missing after the capsizing of a canoe yesterday, the search operation has now been suspended.

Portree and Lochinver RNLI lifeboats, the Stornoway Coastguard rescue helicopter, various local vessels, Gairloch and Ewe Coastguard Rescue Teams, Police and the Red Cross have all been searching the area since this morning in deteriorating weather conditions.

With nothing found from todays search effort, the decision was made in consultation with Northern Constabulary, to suspend operations for today. Coastguard Rescue Team members will resume coastline searches on Tuesday.

Carol Collins, Stornoway Coastguard Watch Manager said,

“Unfortunately despite best efforts by all those out searching today, the missing gentleman has not been found. Our thoughts are with the families of those involved in this tragic incident at this time.”  


-Ends-
 Notes to Editors


  1. Minimum recommended communications equipment for Dinghy sailors / canoeists / kayakers: hand held vhf, flares, charged mob phone

  1. The MCA recommends that [kayakers, canoeists, rowers, dinghy sailors and the like] wear buoyancy aids

  1. The MCA is a partner in the Sea Vision UK campaign to raise awareness and understanding of the sea and maritime activities.  Sea Vision promotes the importance and economic value of the sector and works to highlight the exciting range of activities and career opportunities available to young people within the UK growing maritime sector. www.seavisionuk.org

  1. 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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