Search for missing fishermen scaled back


The search for two missing fishermen in Loch Fyne has been scaled back pending further information.
 
The 40ft fishing vessel the men were on capsized yesterday evening and despite the brave efforts of those on scene to keep it afloat, it subsequently sank.
 
A third crewman was able to raise the alarm to a passing vessel just after 6pm yesterday before being taken to hospital.
 
Despite an extensive and thorough shoreline, air and sea search involving the six Coastguard Rescue Teams, the HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopter based at Prestwick, four RNLI Lifeboats, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Police Scotland and several local commercial vessels, the two missing fishermen have not been found.
 
Julie-Anne Wood, Head of Maritime Operations for HM Coastguard said:  “Following an intensive search over the past 24 hours, utilising the HM Coastguard helicopter, RNLI Lifeboats, Coastguard Rescue Teams, other agencies and local vessels, sadly we have been unable to locate the two missing fishermen. Our thoughts are with all those involved.”
 
Insp Julie McLeish, local area inspector, Police Scotland, said:  "At this time Police Scotland is supporting the search operation.  We are in regular contact with the missing men's families.  It is a very distressing time for them and the local community as a whole.  The search will continue until dark tonight and will resume again at first light tomorrow.”
 
Paul Daly, RNLI Area Lifesaving Manager said: “Our voluntary crews from Tighnabruaich, Campbeltown and Arran stations carried out an exemplary job in the sea search for the missing fishermen. Our boats were out for over twenty hours as part of the combined rescue effort and the thoughts of our crews and of the whole RNLI are with the families of the missing men.”
 

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