CANADIAN CANOES SWAMPED BY WAVES ON THEIR WAY TO SALT ISLAND
An
overnight trip to Salt Island ended prematurely when five Canadian canoes were
swamped by waves as they crossed Stangford Lough.
At
just after 12 noon a member of the public called 999 to report that two kayaks
were in difficulty north of Green Island and there were people in the water.
Belfast Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre sent the Coastguard Rescue Teams
based in Portaferry and Bangor to the Lough with the RNLI Lifeboat based in Portaferry.
Dive Rhib Nemo also joined the rescue.
Seven
canoeists from a party of 14 were pulled from the water. All 4 adults and 10
teenagers were taken to the shore by the two boats where they received medical
attention.
Jude
McNeice Belfast MRCC Watch Manager said:
“The
group were equipped with lifejackets and safety helmets but obviously weren’t
expecting to spend time in the cold water.
“Although the sun is shining the wind is blowing and so
conditions on the Lough are quote rough. I’d just like to take this opportunity
to remind anyone planning to enjoy the spring weather to check weather
forecasts and tidal conditions before you set out.”
-Ends-